Exposing a local web app to the world using LocalTunnel

Exposing a local web app to the world using LocalTunnel is straightforward. Follow these steps:

1. Install LocalTunnel

You need Node.js installed on your system to use LocalTunnel. If Node.js is not installed, download it from Node.js official site.

Once Node.js is installed, use the following command to install LocalTunnel globally:

npm install -g localtunnel

2. Run Your Local Web App

Start the web app you want to expose. For example, if it's running on port 3000:

npm start

or

python -m http.server 3000

3. Expose Your App Using LocalTunnel

Run the following command, replacing 3000 with your web app's port:

lt --port 3000

4. Access the Public URL

After running the command, LocalTunnel will provide a URL like this:

https://your-app-name.loca.lt

Share this URL with others, and they can access your app.

5. Customize the Subdomain (Optional)

You can specify a custom subdomain:

lt --port 3000 --subdomain mycustomapp

If the subdomain is available, your app will be accessible at:

https://mycustomapp.loca.lt

6. Handle Security

• Since LocalTunnel exposes your app publicly, be cautious about sensitive data.
• Avoid running production apps with LocalTunnel.
• Consider using HTTPS by default for secure communication.

7. Stop LocalTunnel

To stop the LocalTunnel, press Ctrl + C in the terminal running the command.

Now your local web app is accessible to the world temporarily via the LocalTunnel URL!