NAT Type 1 vs Type 2 Comparison
Detailed comparison to help you choose the best NAT type for your gaming needs
Quick Answer: NAT Type 2 is recommended for most gamers. It provides excellent gaming performance with better security than Type 1.
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
How Type 1 and Type 2 stack up across key areas
| Feature | NAT Type 1 | NAT Type 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Connection Type | Direct to internet (no router) | Through router with port forwarding |
| Gaming Performance | Best possible - no restrictions | Excellent - minimal restrictions |
| Security Level | Low - device exposed to internet | Good - router firewall protection |
| Setup Difficulty | Simple but requires ISP modem access | Moderate - requires port configuration |
| Multiplayer Hosting | Can host all game types | Can host most game types |
| Voice Chat | Perfect - no issues | Good - rare issues |
| Matchmaking Speed | Fastest possible | Fast (slightly slower than Type 1) |
| Connection Stability | Depends on ISP quality | Router can add stability |
NAT Type 1 (Open)
Direct Internet Connection
Advantages
- Absolute best gaming performance
- No NAT-related connection issues
- Can connect to any player
- Fastest possible matchmaking
- No port forwarding needed
- Ideal for competitive gaming
Disadvantages
- Device directly exposed to internet
- No router firewall protection
- Requires ISP modem configuration
- Not practical for multiple devices
- Higher security risk
- May require business internet plan
NAT Type 2 (Moderate)
Router with Port Forwarding
Advantages
- Good balance of performance and security
- Router firewall protection
- Works with home networks
- Supports multiple devices
- Nearly as good as Type 1 for gaming
- More practical for most users
Disadvantages
- Requires port forwarding setup
- Slightly slower matchmaking
- May have issues with some games
- Periodic maintenance needed
- Can revert to Type 3 after updates
- Some P2P connections blocked
Security Comparison
NAT Type 1 Security
- • Device directly exposed to internet
- • No router firewall protection
- • Relies on device's own security
- • Higher risk of attacks
- • Not recommended for PCs
NAT Type 2 Security
- • Router firewall protection
- • Only specific ports exposed
- • Better DDoS protection
- • Safer for all devices
- • Industry standard approach
Which NAT Type Should You Choose?
Competitive eSports Player
Recommended: Type 1
Every millisecond counts in competitive play
Family Home with Multiple Devices
Recommended: Type 2
Need router for device management and security
Casual Gamer
Recommended: Type 2
Good performance with better security
Streamer/Content Creator
Recommended: Type 1 or 2
Both work well, Type 1 slightly better for hosting
Shared Living (Dorm/Apartment)
Recommended: Type 2
Type 1 rarely possible in shared networks
Setup Guides
NAT Type 1 Setup
- 1Connect device directly to ISP modem
- 2Put modem in bridge/passthrough mode
- 3Configure PPPoE on gaming device if needed
- 4Restart and test connection
NAT Type 2 Setup
- 1Enable UPnP on router
- 2If UPnP fails, manually port forward
- 3Set static IP for gaming device
- 4Configure DMZ as last resort
Bottom Line Recommendation
For 95% of Gamers: Choose NAT Type 2
NAT Type 2 provides excellent gaming performance while maintaining network security. The minor performance difference compared to Type 1 is negligible for most games.
Consider NAT Type 1 Only If:
- • You're a professional/competitive gamer
- • You have a dedicated gaming connection
- • You understand and accept the security risks
- • Your ISP supports bridge mode