How to Change NAT Type on Router
Complete guide to configuring your router for optimal NAT settings using DMZ or port forwarding.
Configuring your router is the most effective way to improve your NAT type for gaming and online applications. This guide will show you two methods: using DMZ (opens all ports) or forwarding specific ports for individual games.
Preparation
Before you begin, gather the following information:
- Router IP address, username, and password (usually found on a label on the back of your router)
- IP address of your gaming device (PC or console)
- TCP or UDP port numbers to forward (if using specific port forwarding)
Method 1: Using DMZ (All Ports Open)
This is the simplest method. It opens all ports for the specified IP address.
1Access Router Settings
Enter your router IP address in a browser, then log in with your username and password. Find "Forwarding", "NAT Settings", or "Advanced Settings" in the menu.
2Get Your Device IP Address
For PC Users:
Type "cmd" in Windows search, run as administrator. Type "ipconfig" and press Enter, find "IPv4 Address".
For PS4 Users:
Go to Settings → Network → View Connection Status, find IP Address.
3Configure DMZ
Click "DMZ" in router settings. Enter your device IPv4 address, set DMZ status to "Enable", and click Save.
4Restart Router
After saving settings, restart your router for changes to take effect.
Method 2: Forward Specific Ports
If you prefer to only open ports for specific games (like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare) for security reasons, use this method.
Important: You cannot use both DMZ and specific port forwarding at the same time. If you want to forward specific ports, you must first disable DMZ.
- 1Find Port Numbers
Search for the TCP/UDP port numbers required by your game.
- 2Access Virtual Server
Find "NAT Settings" or "Virtual Server" in your router settings.
- 3Add Rules
- • Enter the port numbers in "Service Port" or "Start Port"
- • Enter your device IP address
- • "Internal Port" can usually be left empty
- • Select protocol type (TCP, UDP, or both)
- 4Save and Restart
Click Apply Settings and restart your router or modem.
Verify Your NAT Type
After configuring your router, use our free online tool to verify your new NAT type:
Conclusion
By following these steps, your network connectivity should significantly improve. Whether you choose DMZ for simplicity or port forwarding for security, both methods can help you achieve a better NAT type for gaming and online applications.