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How to Port Forward Windows 10 and fix Connectivity Issues

  • By Farrukh Mushtaq

    Farrukh Mushtaq

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    Farrukh Mushtaq, a digital marketer at PureSquare, possesses a keen interest in cybersecurity and enjoys writing about it. With several years of experience in the digital marketing industry, he brings expertise and passion to his work.

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  • 13 December 2024
  • 7 mins read

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Struggling with network issues while browsing on Windows 10? You are not alone. This simple step-by-step guide will help you overcome common connectivity issues by port forwarding Windows 10 devices, even if your ISP performs CGNAT.

What is Port Forwarding?

Port forwarding is a networking method that redirects incoming internet traffic to a specific device or application on your local network. This technique enhances connectivity for activities like file sharing, remote desktop access, and gaming. 

Considerations Before Opening Ports on Windows 10

Before port forwarding on Windows 10, keep the following in mind:  

  • Verify that you are able to access the admin panel of your router.
  • Assign a static IP address to your device. 
  • Only open ports that your game or program needs. 
  • Ensure you use the correct ports for your games or applications.
  • Change the Windows Defender Firewall settings. 
  • Check if your ISP has set up CGNAT, as it can make port forwarding more difficult.

How to Open Ports on Windows 10

If you’re a Windows 10 user, follow these detailed steps to forward ports:

  1. Press the Win+R key and open cmd on Windows 10.
  2. Write ipconfig and press enter.
  3. Next, check your IP address beside the label IPv4.
  4. Now, go to any browser like Google, or Firefox and insert your IP in the address line (https:// IP address)
  5. Write your username and password for the router. Check it behind the router or ask your service provider.
  6. Now, go to the Advanced Setting option.
  7. Locate the Port Forwarding option and enter the below details:
    1. Service Name ( like Port forwarding Windows 10)
    2. Internal and External Port numbers ( discussed below section)
    3. Device IP address (your Windows 10 device IP address)
    4. Protocol: TCP, UDP, or both
  8. After filling in the details, Save or Apply the settings.
  9. Now restart your router and device.
  10. Check if port forwarding works by searching WhatIsMyIP on any browser.
  11. If the IP is changed from what you notice in Step 1, then your Windows 10 is port forwarded.

What are the Main Ports for Windows 10 Port Forwarding?

For Windows 10 apps and services, the following ports are mostly utilized: 

  • For Playing games Live on Xbox: TCP/UDP 3074 
  • Steam on 27015-27030 TCP 
  • Run Minecraft on TCP 25565 
  • Protocol for Remote Desktop (RDP) on TCP 3389 
  • Sharing of Files (FTP) TCP 21
  • Email Services (IMAP) on TCP 143 and SMTP on TCP 25.

What is CGNAT (Carrier-Grade NAT)?

Some Internet Service Providers (ISPs) employ a technique called carrier-grade network address translation, or CGNAT, to share a single public IP address across many users in order to save IPv4 addresses. 

CGNAT complicates port forwarding by rerouting traffic for multiple devices through a single IP address. In simple words, port forwarding allows direct communication with servers. This makes direct communication with specific devices challenging.

How to Open Ports on Windows 10 Behind CGNAT

It’s difficult to open ports on your router if it is behind CGNAT. So, how do we get around these restrictions? Simply, use PureVPN’s port forwarding add-on. With it, you can get around CGNAT and enjoy uninterrupted connectivity for streaming, gaming, and other services. You can take the below steps to do it:

  1. Log into the Members Area of PureVPN.
  2. Go to the Subscription tab.
  3. Navigate to Configure.
  4. Select the required Port Settings.
  5. Click Apply Settings.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • How do I know if my ISP uses CGNAT?

    Plus

    In the admin panel, look up the public IP address of your router. If the addresses differ, your ISP likely uses CGNAT.

  • Can I get around port forwarding by using a VPN?

    Plus

    Some VPNs offer port forwarding, allowing you to bypass router's settings and access programs like gaming or remote desktops.

  • What is the impact of NAT firewalls on port forwarding with a VPN?

    Plus

    In order to improve security, ISPs and VPN providers deploy NAT firewalls, which block unwanted inbound connections. By giving you a public IP address or routing traffic indirectly, a VPN with integrated port forwarding or NAT traversal enables you to get around these limitations.

  • Is it possible to port forward without a static IP address?

    Plus

    A dynamic IP may result in problems with connectivity, but it is doable. However, every time your router resets your IP will be changed. To avoid port forwarding multiple times use a static IP.

In Summary

By optimizing connections for gaming, streaming, and remote access, port forwarding on Windows 10 can improve your browsing experience. With this guide, you can open ports without any problems, whether you're dealing with a regular router or one that is behind CGNAT. The Port Forwarding add-on from PureVPN provides a dependable solution for consumers who are having trouble with CGNAT. Take charge of your network now to experience fast connectivity!

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