Your cool app has been running successfully on your localhost. You're right, it works perfectly. Next, you have to make it known to everyone. Although it may appear to be rocket-science, exposing localhost's website on the internet is not that difficult. This is like opening up the geek kingdom to you: thrilling, nerve-racking, a little amazing. Keep reading to find out more about Localhost to internet.
Imagine that you want to collect feedback on your API from external services or gather input from a buddy who lives across the world. There's no way to get on a plane with your laptop. Now is the time to unchain that localhost, and allow it to mingle freely with the Internet.
Here's a breakdown. Did you know about *ngrok** before? The secret sauce is here. This handy tool allows you to make your localhost set-up visible to everyone with a link. The setup is easy. Don't worry about firewalls or NAT.
What you need to know:
1. *Download and install ngrok** Head to ngrok.com for the installer. The auth token is only available to those who sign up.
2. You can run the tunnel by opening your terminal. Enter ngrok http 8080 (replace your port with 8080). Voila! It's done!
You may be looking for some other options or you might want more control. Look at **localtunnel**. You can also use this gem. It is a little less famous but works. All you need to do is type npxlocaltunnel 8080. Perfect for those quick demonstrations, without all the hassle of creating accounts.
Did you ever get a rush from figuring out the Matrix sentient code? This is the same thrill you will get when someone from across the world hits your URL localhost without your IP giving you the stinkeye.
For the adventurous types, you can explore another option, which is **localhost.run**. It's command-line heaven:
```shell
ssh -R 80:localhost:8080 ssh.localhost.run
```
It's true, there are no installation or account required. SSH wizardry is all it takes to get a public link that echoes your local application.
How about if your data is sensitive or you need to work in a secured environment? PageKite might just be what you need. This is a more advanced program, with a lot of security features. This allows you to fine-tune and tweak the program to your liking. Sign up and let the kite soar.
On one occasion, I had to stay in a remote hotel and show the client updates for their apps. My lifeline was ngrok, which I used because my internet service was unstable. After I sent it to the client, they saw the update in real time and sealed the deal. You can save yourself by the bell.
However, a gentle reminder is in order - caution is the best policy. You should never set up your entire production environment in these tunnels. The same as leaving your keys under the mat. Do not hang anything that is sensitive.
A magician reveals their secret? Your turn now. Your local project can be shown to your partners, testers and even grandmothers who are always asking you what you do. You don't have to write code for her, just a quick demo is enough.
You know, the best wizardry is to protect your secrets. Don't be afraid to let your localhost take flight. The internet awaits!