How to Change NAT Type on Windows

Your NAT type affects online gaming, voice chat, and multiplayer connectivity. If your NAT type is set to Strict or Moderate, you may experience connection issues, longer matchmaking times, or difficulty hosting games.

This guide explains how to change NAT type on a Windows PC and improve your connection.

What Is NAT Type

NAT stands for Network Address Translation. It controls how your device communicates with other devices over the internet.

There are three main NAT types:

• Open NAT – Best connectivity and fewer restrictions
• Moderate NAT – Some restrictions when connecting to other players
• Strict NAT – Limited connectivity and frequent issues

For smooth online gaming, Open NAT is recommended.

Check Your NAT Type on Windows

To check NAT type:

1. Open Settings
2. Go to Gaming
3. Click Xbox Networking
4. View the NAT type under Network status

If it shows Moderate or Strict, follow the steps below.

Method 1: Enable UPnP on Your Router

UPnP automatically opens required ports.

Steps:

1. Open your router’s web interface
2. Log in using admin credentials
3. Locate UPnP settings
4. Enable UPnP
5. Save settings and restart router

After restarting, check your NAT type again.

Method 2: Forward Required Ports

If UPnP does not work, manually forward ports.

Common Xbox Live ports:

• TCP 3074
• UDP 88
• UDP 3074
• UDP 500
• UDP 3544
• UDP 4500

Steps:

1. Log in to router settings
2. Go to Port Forwarding
3. Add required ports
4. Enter your PC’s local IP address
5. Save settings

Restart router and PC after configuration.

Method 3: Enable Network Discovery

Network settings may affect NAT status.

Steps:

1. Open Control Panel
2. Go to Network and Sharing Center
3. Click Change advanced sharing settings
4. Turn on Network discovery
5. Save changes

Method 4: Enable Teredo on Windows

Teredo helps Windows connect to IPv6 networks.

To check Teredo:

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator
2. Run:

netsh interface teredo show state

If disabled, enable it:

netsh interface teredo set state type=default

Restart your PC and check NAT again.

Method 5: Disable Firewall Temporarily (Testing Only)

Sometimes firewall settings block connections.

1. Open Windows Security
2. Go to Firewall & network protection
3. Temporarily disable firewall
4. Check NAT status

Re-enable firewall after testing.

Method 6: Use a Static IP Address

Assigning a static IP can help port forwarding work correctly.

Steps:

1. Open Control Panel
2. Go to Network and Sharing Center
3. Click your active connection
4. Select Properties
5. Choose Internet Protocol Version 4
6. Enter static IP details

Ensure the IP is within your router’s range.

Common Reasons NAT Type Is Strict

• Router firewall restrictions
• Double NAT from ISP modem and router
• Carrier-grade NAT
• Incorrect port forwarding
• ISP-level restrictions

If double NAT is present, put your modem into bridge mode.

Final Thoughts

Changing NAT type on Windows PC improves online gaming and communication performance. Enabling UPnP or forwarding ports usually resolves Strict NAT issues. If problems persist, check for double NAT or ISP restrictions. Always restart your router after making changes.

FAQs

What is the best NAT type for gaming
Open NAT provides the best connectivity.

Can I change NAT type without router access
Usually no, router settings are required.

Why is my NAT type strict
It may be caused by firewall settings or blocked ports.

Does Windows 11 support Teredo
Yes, Teredo is supported in Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Is port forwarding safe
It is safe when configured correctly, but only open necessary ports.