Can somebody host a website from home?¶
Yes. A website can run from a computer, server, router, NAS or other device connected to domestic broadband. A residential IP address may identify a subscriber and premises, but it does not identify the operator.
How home hosting may work¶
The domain may point directly to the home connection. A router may forward incoming traffic to an internal device. Dynamic DNS may keep the hostname updated if the public address changes. A tunnel or reverse proxy may also expose the service without revealing the residential address directly.
What evidence may exist¶
Potential sources include:
- ISP subscriber and address-assignment records;
- registrar and DNS accounts;
- router port-forwarding and administration settings;
- local devices holding website files, logs and credentials; and
- tunnelling or proxy records.
Several people may use the connection. The service may be run remotely or from a compromised device.
Key takeaway
A residential address is a lead to a connection and premises. Responsibility still requires router, device, account and access evidence.