COD: Modern Warfare 3 Port Forwarding: Solving NAT Type Issues in 2025
-
30 December 2024
-
8 mins read
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (MW3) offers intense multiplayer action, but network issues like a strict NAT type can ruin the gaming spirit. A strict or moderate NAT type can cause connectivity problems, including higher ping, frequent disconnections, and trouble joining friends' lobbies.
This blog covers the best way to enable COD: MW 3 port forwarding and how you can open ports behind CGNAT.
How NAT Type Affects Multiplayer in Modern Warfare 3
NAT (Network Address Translation) determines how your device communicates with other devices on the internet. It plays a crucial role in online multiplayer games like COD: MW3 by managing inbound and outbound traffic.
Types of NAT
Open NAT:
Best for gaming. You can connect easily with players, host lobbies, and experience minimal lag.
Moderate NAT
Limited connectivity. You can play with most players but may experience some restrictions.
Strict NAT
The worst for gaming. Limited to players with Open NAT, causing issues with matchmaking, party chat, and game stability.
How to Enable Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Port Forwarding for Better NAT Type
Port forwarding redirects gaming traffic through specific ports on your router, bypassing NAT restrictions. Follow these steps to enable port forwarding for COD: MW3:
Step 1: Find Your Device’s IP Address
- On PC, press Windows + R, type cmd, and hit Enter.
- In the command prompt, type ipconfig and press Enter.
- Look for IPv4 Address (e.g., 192.168.1.x).
- On the Console (PS/Xbox), go to Settings, then Network Settings, and find IP Address.
Step 2: Log Into Your Router
- Open a web browser and type your router's IP address (usually 192.168.1.1).
- Enter your login credentials (default username and password are often "admin" and "password").
Step 3: Set Up Port Forwarding
- Navigate to the Port Forwarding section (sometimes called Advanced Settings or NAT Settings).
Step 4: Add a new port forwarding rule
- Service Name: COD MW3 (or any custom name)
- Protocol: TCP/UDP (or both)
- External Port Start & End: Use specific ports for MW3 (see next section).
- Internal IP Address: Enter your device’s IP address.
- Internal Port Start & End: Use the same ports.
- Save the settings and restart your router.
Important Ports for COD: Modern Warfare 3.
To enable the best connectivity for Modern Warfare 3, forward these ports on your router:
PC Ports
- TCP: 3074, 27014-27050
- UDP: 3074, 3478, 4379-4380, 27000-27031, 27036
PlayStation Ports:
- TCP: 80, 443, 1935, 3478-3480
- UDP: 3074, 3478-3479
Xbox Ports:
- TCP/UDP: 3074
- UDP: 53, 88, 500, 3074, 3544, 4500
Make sure to enable both TCP and UDP protocols for the ports listed. After configuring these ports, restart your gaming console or PC to see the changes.
Does CGNAT Block Port Forwarding?
The short answer is yes. If you are thinking, how? It is because CGNAT helps ISPs (internet service providers) to assign a single IP to multiple consumers who are relying on the same network. It helps them prevent network exhaustion, but it prevents anyone from opening ports on their at-home routers.
How to Open Ports Behind CGNAT
Use PureVPN’s port forwarding add-on and dedicated IP to open and block required ports in just a few simple clicks. Follow the below simple process:
- Log into the Members Area of PureVPN.
- Go to the Subscription tab.
- Navigate to Configure.
- Select the required Port Settings.
- Click Apply Settings.
| Problem | Impact | Solution |
| Double NAT | Difficulty accessing devices or services hosted on the network behind the second router from the internet. | Optimize router configurationConsider alternative network topologiesAdvanced techniques |
| Conflicting Port Forwarding Rules | Traffic might be directed to the wrong device, causing connection issues or data corruption. | Optimize router configurationConfigure port forwarding correctlyAvoid conflicts |
| Firewall Interference | Difficulty in establishing connections to devices or services on the network. | Optimize router configurationConsider firewall rules |
| IP Address Management | Incorrect IP address assignments can lead to routing problems and inaccessibility. | Utilize DMZ (Demilitarized Zone)Delegate to Secondary RouterReserve IP address |
| UPnP Incompatibility | Manual port forwarding configuration might be required for devices that rely on UPnP. | Consider firewall rules |
| Router Compatibility | Difficulty in establishing a stable and functional network connection. | Consider alternative network topologies Advanced techniques |
| Troubleshooting Complexity | Increased time and effort required to identify and resolve network problems. | Various Troubleshooting Tips that might not fit at large. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
What is NAT, and how does it affect my gaming experience?
In gaming, it establishes the ease of communication between your PC or console and other devices. Although Moderate or Strict NAT types may pose problems, an Open NAT guarantees seamless matching and connectivity.
-
How can I check my current NAT type in Modern Warfare 3?
Your NAT type is displayed in the multiplayer menu, typically at the top right corner of the screen. Check this to understand your network's status. If it shows Moderate or Strict, adjustments might be necessary for better performance.
-
What steps can I take to change my NAT type to Open?
Enable UPnP on your router to automatically manage ports, or manually forward the required ports for Modern Warfare 3. If these steps don’t work, placing your device in the DMZ of your router settings can resolve the issue, though it comes with security risks.
-
Why did my NAT type change from Moderate to Strict without any changes to my network?
NAT changes can occur due to router firmware updates, ISP configuration changes, or network environment adjustments. Adding new devices or changes in hardware setup may also affect your NAT type unexpectedly.
Bottom Line
Fixing your NAT type in COD: MW3 is a game-changer—it cuts the lag and makes fast connections for matchmaking and party chats. With PureVPN’s port forwarding add-on and dedicated IP, you can smash through the setup in just a few clicks and dive straight into non-stop action with your squad worldwide. One shot, one chance, one victory!
