Frequently Asked Questions

Your NAT type determines how easily your device can establish connections over the internet. Use our free NAT type detection tool to check your current configuration. There are four main types: Full Cone NAT (Type 1/Open), Restricted Cone NAT (Type 2/Moderate), Port Restricted Cone NAT (Type 2/Moderate), and Symmetric NAT (Type 3/Strict).

Symmetric NAT is the most restrictive type of NAT that assigns different ports for each external connection, even to the same destination. This restricts connections to only known external addresses and ports, often blocking peer-to-peer applications and gaming unless special configurations are made.

Full Cone NAT (Type 1/Open) is the best for gaming as it allows unrestricted inbound and outbound connections. Restricted Cone NAT (Type 2/Moderate) is acceptable for most games. Symmetric NAT (Type 3/Strict) can cause connection issues and should be avoided for optimal gaming performance.

Gaming consoles use different terminology: Xbox and PlayStation use Type 1 (Open), Type 2 (Moderate), and Type 3 (Strict). Nintendo Switch uses A (Open), B (Moderate), and C/D (Strict). Each corresponds to different levels of connectivity restrictions that can impact matchmaking and party chat.

You can improve your NAT type by: 1) Enabling UPnP in your router settings, 2) Setting up port forwarding for your gaming device, 3) Placing your device in the router's DMZ, 4) Requesting a public IP address from your ISP, or 5) Using a gaming VPN service. Start with enabling UPnP as it's the easiest solution.

Strict or Symmetric NAT types may block direct connections to other players, causing lag, disconnections, or inability to join certain game lobbies. Open or Cone NAT types allow direct peer-to-peer connections, providing better gaming experiences with lower latency and more stable connections.

If enabling UPnP doesn't improve your NAT type, try: 1) Restarting your router and gaming device, 2) Updating your router's firmware, 3) Setting up manual port forwarding, 4) Checking if your ISP uses CGNAT (Carrier Grade NAT), 5) Contacting your ISP about getting a public IP address.

Gaming VPNs can sometimes help bypass strict NAT restrictions, especially if your ISP uses CGNAT. However, VPNs may increase latency. Choose a VPN specifically optimized for gaming with servers close to your location for the best results.

Common gaming ports include: Xbox Live (88 UDP, 3074 UDP/TCP), PlayStation Network (80 TCP, 443 TCP, 3478-3480 UDP), Nintendo Switch (6667 TCP, 12400 TCP, 28910 TCP). Check your console's documentation or our port forwarding guides for specific requirements.

UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) automatically opens and closes ports as needed, while port forwarding manually opens specific ports permanently. UPnP is easier to set up but less secure. Port forwarding provides more control but requires manual configuration for each device and application.

DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) places your gaming device outside the router's firewall, giving it an Open NAT type. While effective for gaming, it reduces security. Only use DMZ if other methods fail, and ensure your gaming device has updated security software.

Gaming routers often include features like QoS (Quality of Service), gaming mode, and better hardware that can improve gaming performance. They typically handle NAT more efficiently and offer easier port management, but a properly configured standard router can work just as well.

Yes, our NAT checker is completely safe. It only tests connection behavior using WebRTC and STUN servers to determine your NAT classification. No personal data, passwords, or sensitive information is accessed or exposed during the testing process.

Our NAT type checker only collects your public IP address (which is already visible to websites you visit) and network connectivity patterns to determine your NAT type. We don't store personal information, browsing history, or any data that could identify you personally.

Opening your NAT type can potentially reduce network security by allowing more inbound connections. However, the security impact is minimal for home users with updated devices. Gaming devices should have their own security measures, and routers still provide basic firewall protection.

CGNAT (Carrier Grade NAT) is used by ISPs to share IP addresses among multiple customers. It can cause strict NAT types that are difficult to change through router settings alone. If you have CGNAT, contact your ISP about getting a dedicated public IP address.

On PS5, go to Settings > System > Console Information > Network to see your NAT type. You can also test your connection through Settings > Network > Test Internet Connection. Type 1 is best, Type 2 is acceptable, and Type 3 should be improved for optimal gaming.

On Xbox, go to Settings > Network > Network Settings > Test NAT type. Xbox will show Open, Moderate, or Strict. Open is ideal, Moderate works for most games, and Strict may cause connectivity issues with some games and party features.

On Nintendo Switch, go to System Settings > Internet. Your NAT type is shown as A (Open), B (Moderate), C (Strict), or D (Strict). Types A and B work well for online gaming, while C and D may cause connection problems in some games.

Yes, NAT type affects PC gaming, especially for peer-to-peer games and services like Steam Remote Play. Most PC games use dedicated servers which are less affected by NAT type, but some games and voice chat applications work better with an open NAT type.