How to Port ForwardPS4

How to Port Forward your PlayStation 4

While the ports needed to open up NAT type on PS4 are the same, the process differs from router to router as not all routers have the same configuration. Although the router settings may differ, the steps to port forward on Playstation 4 are mostly the same on any router. You just have to dig around your router's settings.

Here are the steps to port forward on PS4:

• Open the Settings app on your PlayStation 4.
• Next, scroll down and select Network.
• Select View Connection Status.
• Note the IP address of your console. This will be required later in the port forwarding process.
• Note the MAC address of your console. This may also be required for later steps.
• Log in to your router's web interface.
• Manually assign a static IP address to your PS4 console. Use the data from step four or step five subject to your router.
• Locate the port forwarding rules for your router.
• Once there, add ports for TCP 80, 443, 3478, 3479, 3480 and UDP 3478, 3479.

Once you’re done with making changes, it’s recommended that you reboot your device. After the reboot, you should see an improvement in your NAT type. If you’re wondering the best NAT type, it’s Type 2 NAT, which is moderate, with Type 3 being strict and Type 1 being open.

Learn about what is port forwarding.

What is Network Address Translation (NAT)?

Network Address Translation (NAT) plays a big role when it comes to connectivity for online multiplayer games as it decides how incoming traffic is handled. For online gamers, NAT plays a significant role as it determines who you can play with.

Network Address Translation (NAT) is a method used by routers to interpret a public IP address, which is used on the Internet into a private IP address, which is used on your home network and vice versa.

In an online gaming world, NAT can create barriers if it's not set up right. There are numerous reasons why you might have a stern NAT on your network. However, with port forwarding in place, you can conveniently overcome obstacles in place.

Speaking of the world of gaming consoles, there are three main NAT types that classify the connectivity they have to other players over the Internet:

NAT Type 1 – Open

This is a type of configuration where all is allowed. This means that your Playstation 4 can connect to anyone’s games and host games. That’s not all, other users from across the globe will be able to find you and connect to the games you are hosting. This type of setting is connected directly to the Internet without any firewall.

NAT Type 2 – Moderate

In this type of setting, your gaming console will be directly connected to other players, however, some aspects will be restricted. Typically, when you connect to the internet through a router, you’ll get NAT type 2.

NAT Type 3 – Strict

With this NAT type, your PS4 has limited connectivity with other players on the PlayStation server. Other players with NAT Type 2 and NAT Type 3 will be unable to join any game you’re trying to host. In NAT Type 3, your router doesn’t have any open ports and requires port forwarding.

This means that you’ll have the best online gaming experience if you’re on NAT Type 1.

Learn about NAT filtering.