Networking Overview

Companion Home gives you multiple options for accessing your apps, from local-only to fully exposed on the internet.

Access Methods

Local Network (Default)

By default, your apps are only accessible on your local network via http://<server-ip>:<port>. No configuration needed.

Cloudflare Gateway (Recommended)

The easiest way to access your apps from anywhere. The Cloudflare Gateway creates a secure tunnel through Cloudflare’s network — no port forwarding required. Available through the Portal.

Tailscale

For private access without exposing apps to the public internet, Tailscale creates a secure mesh VPN between your devices.

Manual Port Forwarding

For advanced users, you can expose apps directly by forwarding ports on your router. See the Expose Your Apps guide.