What is Port Forwarding?
Port forwarding, or port mapping, channels incoming internet traffic through designated ports to a specific device. By allowing external devices to access services or applications on a private IP address within a local network, port forwarding is useful for improving online gaming, enabling remote access, and running servers.
Do You Need to Port Forward Steam?
When you open ports for Steam, it reduces lag, speeds up matchmaking times, and improves connection stability for an uninterrupted gaming experience. It also helps in hosting game servers smoothly, enabling better interactions with other players.
Information Required for Steam Port Forwarding
To set up port forwarding for Steam, you will need the following details:
1. Your router’s local IP address.
2. Your computer’s local IP address.
3. The TCP and UDP ports Steam uses.
How to Set Up Steam Port Forwarding
Here is a step-by-step guide to port forward Steam:
Step #1: Open Ports in Your Router
1. Enter your router’s IP address in any web browser to access its settings.
2. Look for the Port Forwarding section (might be called Virtual Server or Port Mapping)
3. Input your computer’s local IP address in the appropriate field.
4. Add the TCP and UDP ports Steam uses.
5. Save your settings to apply them.
Step #2: Adjust Firewall Settings
1. Open your PC’s firewall.
2. Create inbound and outbound rules for the TCP and UDP ports you opened.
3. Add Steam to the allowed apps list.
4. Save the rules and exit.
Step #3: Test if Ports are Open
1. Use any port checking tool to verify if the ports are open.
2. Launch Steam, join an online game, and check for any connectivity improvements.
Ports Needed to Run Steam
Login and Content Download Ports
Steam Client Ports
Dedicated or Listen Server Ports
P2P and Voice Chat Ports
PureVPN’s Port Forwarding Add-On
Easy & Secured Way to Open All Ports
Looking for a way to port forward Steam without hassle? Using our Port Forwarding add-on, you can open the required ports in just a few clicks. No digging through router settings—just smoother downloads, faster connections, and uninterrupted gaming.
How to Port Forward Steam with PureVPN
1. Sign up for PureVPN, add Port Forwarding to your plan, and complete the payment.
2. Download and install the PureVPN app, launch it, and log into your account.
3. Go to the PureVPN Member Area, open Subscriptions, and click Configure next to Port Forwarding.
4. Select Enable specific ports, enter the required ports for Steam, and click Apply Settings.
5. Open PureVPN, connect to a port forwarding-supported server, and start playing Steam with improved connectivity!
Benefits of Using the Port Forwarding Add-On
PureVPN’s Port Forwarding add-on can help you in dozens of ways. Here are some top ways you can make the most of the add-on:
- Access devices remotely.
- Port forward on any device.
- Improve connection speeds.
- Open ports with VPN protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ports to forward for Steam?
To run Steam smoothly, you need to forward TCP ports 80, 443, 27015-27030 and UDP ports 27015-27030, 27031-27100, 3478, 4379-4380.
Do I need to port forward Steam?
Port forwarding Steam can help with faster downloads, better multiplayer connectivity, and voice chat stability. If you are experiencing connection issues, opening the recommended ports could improve performance.
Is it safe to port forward Steam?
Yes, port forwarding Steam is safe as long as you only open the required ports and keep your firewall active.