Your NAT type determines how easily your device can establish connections over the internet. Visit https://www.whatsmynat.com to run a free NAT type detection.

What does 'Symmetric NAT' mean?

Symmetric NAT is a type of NAT that restricts connections to only known external addresses and ports. It often blocks peer-to-peer applications and gaming unless special configurations are made.

How can I change my NAT type?

You can try changing your NAT type by enabling UPnP, using port forwarding, setting up DMZ on your router, or switching to a public IP. Detailed guides are available on our site.

Why does NAT type affect online gaming?

Strict or Symmetric NAT types may block direct connections to other players, causing lag or disconnections. Open or Cone NAT types provide better gaming experiences.

Is it safe to use a NAT type checker?

Yes. Our NAT checker is safe and only tests connection behavior to determine your NAT classification. No personal data or ports are exposed.

NAT Type Troubleshooting: Complete Guide to Fix Gaming Connection Issues

June 11, 2025

Having trouble with your NAT type despite trying common fixes? This comprehensive troubleshooting guide will help you diagnose and solve even the most stubborn NAT issues.

Quick Diagnosis Checklist

Before diving into complex solutions, check these basics:

[ ] Router has UPnP enabled
[ ] Gaming device has static IP
[ ] Correct ports are forwarded
[ ] No double NAT detected
[ ] Firewall allows gaming traffic
[ ] Router firmware is up to date

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Process

Step 1: Identify Your Current NAT Type

Console Methods:

Xbox: Settings > Network > Test NAT Type
PlayStation: Settings > Network > View Connection Status
Nintendo Switch: System Settings > Internet > Test Connection

PC Methods:

Use our NAT Type Checker
Check game-specific network settings
Use command line tools (netstat, telnet)

Step 2: Document Your Network Setup

Network Topology:

Internet → Modem → Router → Gaming Device
Note any additional devices: switches, extenders, powerline adapters
Record all IP addresses and device models

Current Settings:

Router make/model
Current NAT type
UPnP status
Port forwarding rules
Firewall settings

Step 3: Test Basic Connectivity

Internet Speed Test:

Test download/upload speeds
Check for packet loss
Verify latency/ping times

Network Connectivity:

# Windows Command Prompt
ping 8.8.8.8
ping google.com
tracert 8.8.8.8

Advanced Troubleshooting Scenarios

Scenario 1: UPnP Enabled but NAT Still Strict

Possible Causes:

UPnP not working properly
Gaming device not requesting ports correctly
Router UPnP implementation issues

Solutions:

Disable and re-enable UPnP:
- Turn off UPnP in router settings
- Restart router
- Turn UPnP back on
- Restart gaming device
Check UPnP port table:
- Access router admin panel
- Look for UPnP port mapping table
- Verify gaming device has active mappings
Manual port forwarding as backup:
- Forward required ports manually
- Keep UPnP enabled for other devices

Scenario 2: Port Forwarding Configured but Not Working

Diagnostic Steps:

Verify port forwarding rules:
- Check exact port numbers
- Confirm TCP vs UDP settings
- Verify target IP address
Test port accessibility:
- Use online port checker tools
- Test from external network
- Check with multiple tools
Common mistakes:
- Wrong internal IP address
- Gaming device IP changed (need static IP)
- Firewall blocking forwarded ports

Solutions:

Set up DHCP reservation for gaming device
Create firewall exceptions for ports
Try different port ranges if games support it

Scenario 3: NAT Type Changes Randomly

Causes:

Dynamic IP assignments
Router reboots clearing settings
Multiple devices competing for same ports
ISP connection issues

Solutions:

Configure static IP:
- Set static IP on gaming device
- Or use DHCP reservation in router
Check router logs:
- Look for error messages
- Identify connection drops
- Monitor UPnP activity
Stable router placement:
- Ensure good power connection
- Adequate ventilation
- Avoid interference sources

Scenario 4: Works Sometimes, Fails Other Times

Intermittent Issues Troubleshooting:

Time-based patterns:
- Note when issues occur
- Peak usage times
- Specific game servers
Device-specific testing:
- Test one device at a time
- Isolate problematic devices
- Check for conflicts
Network monitoring:
- Monitor bandwidth usage
- Check for background updates
- Identify bandwidth-heavy applications

ISP-Related NAT Issues

Carrier-Grade NAT (CGNAT)

Symptoms:

NAT type always strict regardless of router settings
Port forwarding doesn't work
Multiple devices show same external IP

Solutions:

Request public IP from ISP (may cost extra)
Use VPN with port forwarding
Switch to different ISP if possible

IPv6 Complications

Issues:

IPv6 not properly configured
Mixed IPv4/IPv6 causing confusion
Gaming services prefer IPv4

Solutions:

Disable IPv6 temporarily:
- Router settings: disable IPv6
- Gaming device: disable IPv6
- Test if NAT improves
Proper IPv6 configuration:
- Enable IPv6 passthrough
- Configure IPv6 firewall rules
- Ensure gaming devices support IPv6

Hardware-Specific Solutions

Gaming Router Features

Look for these features:

Gaming mode/game accelerator
Adaptive QoS
Gaming device prioritization
Built-in NAT optimization

Recommended Settings:

Enable gaming mode
Set gaming device to highest priority
Configure QoS for gaming traffic
Update to latest firmware

Mesh Network Issues

Common Problems:

Gaming device connects to wrong node
Nodes operating in router mode
Poor backhaul connection

Solutions:

Force connection to main router
Ensure nodes are in access point mode
Use wired backhaul where possible
Update mesh system firmware

Nuclear Options (Last Resort)

Factory Reset Router

Backup current settings
Factory reset router
Reconfigure from scratch
Test NAT type with minimal configuration
Add settings back gradually

Replace Router

Sometimes older routers have fundamental NAT limitations:

Research gaming-friendly routers
Check compatibility with your ISP
Consider mesh systems for large homes

Contact ISP Support

When all else fails:

Explain gaming requirements
Request public IP address
Ask about CGNAT limitations
Consider business internet plans

Prevention and Maintenance

Regular Maintenance:

Update router firmware monthly
Monitor NAT type after changes
Document working configurations
Test after ISP/router changes

Network Hygiene:

Limit unnecessary devices
Use QoS for gaming traffic
Monitor bandwidth usage
Keep gaming devices updated

When to Seek Professional Help

Contact Support When:

Multiple troubleshooting attempts fail
Hardware appears to be malfunctioning
ISP-level issues are suspected
Network setup is complex (business/enterprise)

Information to Provide:

Detailed network topology
All troubleshooting steps attempted
Specific error messages
Hardware make/model numbers

Still having issues? Our NAT Type Checker can provide additional diagnostic information to help identify your specific problem!