# Connect remotely using ZeroTier
Applies to:
nodl OG, nodl One (black, etched logo) and nodl Dojo (red, etched logo)
# Why use ZeroTier
There are many ways to use your nodl remotely from your phone or your computer. But currently one of the easiest ways is using ZeroTier.
This allows you to use things like Zap Mobile or Desktop anywhere you are, use your whirlpool GUI to access your mixes, use a browser to access the nodl GUI, use RTL, use BTCPAY, anything you can usually use when you’re on your local network.
Also, you can keep it always on and use it even at home. Just set it and forget it.
ZeroTier is faster and more reliable than using Tor because the connection goes as directly as possible between your devices. It's part of a family of software than can be called overlay networks, or simply, VPNs (the real meaning, not the privacy thing).
# What is ZeroTier
ZeroTier is a third party service. Please be aware that you need to register with their service to use it and the software uses their servers so your devices can find each other.
As the official website states, "ZeroTier creates secure networks between on-premise, cloud, desktop, and mobile devices.".
Although we advise using this service, we encourage you to do your own research about how it works and the company behind it.
# Create a my.zerotier.com account and a network
Go to my.zerotier.com (opens new window) and register. Use a STRONG PASSWORD as anyone with your credentials will have access to your “private” network.
Then go to Networks and click “Create a network” then save your “Network ID”.
# Install ZeroTier on the nodl
SSH into your nodl. This step depends on the model of your device.
For nodl OG, use:
ssh root@nodl.local
For nodl One and Dojo, use:
ssh -p 22222 rock@nodl-name.local
If this is your first time connecting through SSH, you will be prompted to verify the SSH host key. Simply answer yes.
The password is nodl1234 for nodl OG (if you haven't changed it). For other devices, it's in the paper you received with your device.
If you are using a nodl One or Dojo, start by running:
sudo apt update ; sudo apt -y install curl
nodl One and Dojo: DO NOT RUN ANY UPGRADES
You're working in the "boot" environment of your nodl. It uses a tiny storage space and manually running upgrades can render your device unusable.
Next, install zerotier. The command is updated from time to time on their website (opens new window) so check there (under LINUX (DEB/RPM)) for the latest one. As of the 28th of January 2021, the command is (it's one long line to copy/paste):
curl -s 'https://raw.githubusercontent.com/zerotier/ZeroTierOne/master/doc/contact%40zerotier.com.gpg' | gpg --import && \ if z=$(curl -s 'https://install.zerotier.com/' | gpg); then echo "$z" | sudo bash; fi
Then run:
sudo zerotier-cli join [the network id you previously saved]
# Install ZeroTier on your other devices
Download ZeroTier on all the devices you need (iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, Linux, you name it). Do the same, add the network id you recorded before.
# Accept Connections
Before a device can use the ZeroTier network, you have to authorize it on my.zerotier.com (opens new window) in the Networks menu. You’ll notice that all your devices are pending approval. Just accept them.
After you do, save the ZeroTier IP address shown for your nodl (usually 172.... or 10.... but they're randomly assigned).
# Update LND configuration
If you're planning to use LND over ZeroTier, you need to add the new IP address to the TLS certificate.
Go to your nodl admin UI, click on “Details and settings” in the LND tile, then add the 172.X IP in the “Additional IP address(es)” box. If you already had something there, just add the new IP separated by a space.
Then you need to reset the TLS certificate (see the dedicated guide to do so).
# That’s it!
Now you can open your browser to the 172.X address (https://172.x.y.z/admin) and use your nodl from anywhere!