Port Forwarding Tips

Port forwarding is one way that remote Virtual TimeClock Client computers can connect to a Virtual TimeClock Server computer on a different local area network. The port forward is configured in the router and/or modem at the location of the Virtual TimeClock Server computer. Here are some port forwarding tips to make sure you always have a steady and dependable network time clock connection.

• It's important to have a static IP address set on the TimeClock Server computer. Your IT professional can help you with this or you can review our Assigning a Static IP Address article.
• It's also convenient to have a static public IP address assigned to your router/modem at the Virtual TimeClock Server location. Your Internet service provider (ISP) can help you with this. If either of these IP addresses change, your port forwarding will no longer work.

When configuring port forwarding for the first time, there's some information you'll need to make the process quick and easy.

• Determine your router model. The model number will likely be on a sticker on the bottom of the router. This will make it easier to consult one of the available port forwarding guides from resources like portforward.com.
• Make sure you have the login username and password for the router. Some ISPs will put the username and password on a sticker and attach it to the router.
• Many Internet service providers will set up the port forward for you. All you have to do is ask. You will need to tell them TCP port 56777 needs to be forwarded to the IP address of the Virtual TimeClock Server computer.

Once the port forward is set up and you have the static IP address from your ISP, your remote TimeClock Clients can connect. Here are complete instructions for using Virtual TimeClock over the Internet.