NAT Moderate with VPN and Strict without?

Toggle sidebar Toggle sidebar
R

resonantace

Prominent
Nov 29, 2017
13
0
510
So, I have tried setting up my router, TP-Link Archer C5 V2.0 with various Port forwarding settings, given by Microsoft, Ubisoft, Activision, for various games and I still get NAT Strict. I have a static IP set for my desktop. I have tried plugging my computer into the wall input (I have an apartment where the ethernet comes directly into the bedrooms) and it stills says my NAT type is Strict.

I have tried running a port checker and it says all my ports are blocked, including 80, when I type them in after port forwarding. I then tried DMZ, then UPnP, then turning my Windows Firewall off, and it still happens.

However, when I use my VPN, NordVPN, my NAT changes to Moderate and all the necessary ports are open again. Any idea why this is and how to fix it for my normal adapter?
 
Solution
audie-tron25
Having blocked ports is expected as the Firewall typically relies on UPNP to open the ports if it detects outgoing traffic (at least for most consumer devices). In this case, the problem you are likely encountering is that the building's network restricts the ports able to be opened on their firewall, hence why you get a strict NAT. This is done in most commercial networks (and apartments/student accommodation) to protect the network.

Unfortunately, there isn't much you can do. As you've discovered, using a VPN for gaming is probably your best bet since it allows you to bypass this. Make sure that the NordVPN has a server near you to ensure you have the lowest ping possible.
Sort by date Sort by votes
audie-tron25

audie-tron25

Reputable
Mar 23, 2015
498
1
5,165
Having blocked ports is expected as the Firewall typically relies on UPNP to open the ports if it detects outgoing traffic (at least for most consumer devices). In this case, the problem you are likely encountering is that the building's network restricts the ports able to be opened on their firewall, hence why you get a strict NAT. This is done in most commercial networks (and apartments/student accommodation) to protect the network.

Unfortunately, there isn't much you can do. As you've discovered, using a VPN for gaming is probably your best bet since it allows you to bypass this. Make sure that the NordVPN has a server near you to ensure you have the lowest ping possible.
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
Solution
failboat

failboat

Splendid
Feb 19, 2010
1,905
51
21,390
Ports can be blocked by the ISP even if you configured everything correctly on your side.

Connecting out to a VPN server effectively puts you at the different ISP. Configuring port forwarding with that setup will likely be more difficult.

I don't recommend software that opens ports or lets everything in. Just set up the port forwarding and troubleshoot there.
Make sure you only have one NAT in your home. This is one of the most common issues due to the fact that most modems are also routers.
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
R

resonantace

Prominent
Nov 29, 2017
13
0
510
I contacted my ISP. Evidently they changed the policies mid-April and this resulted in everyone going from moderate to strict NAT types after some security problems. After contacting my ISP they readily changed it back to open.
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
You must log in or register to reply here.

TRENDING THREADS

Latest posts

Moderators online

Share this page

COMPANY
RESOURCES
FOLLOW
Top Bottom