Strict NAT on a console usually means the router is blocking inbound connections multiplayer games need. Forwarding the correct ports can help, but the console needs a stable local IP first.
Does this affect you?
Use this for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PS5, or PS4 when party chat, matchmaking, hosting, or multiplayer lobbies fail because NAT is Strict, Moderate, or Type 3.
Give the console a reserved local IP
Without this, the forwarding rule can break after a restart.
- Find the console current IP and MAC address. On Xbox, open Settings > General > Network settings > Advanced settings. On PS5, open Settings > Network > Settings > View Connection Status.
- Log into the router at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1.
- Open DHCP Reservation or Address Reservation under LAN or Network Settings.
- Add the console MAC address and reserve its current IP or another chosen address.
- Save and restart the router or console if prompted.
Forward the console ports
Create rules to the reserved console IP.
- Xbox: forward UDP 88, UDP 500, UDP 3074, TCP 3074, and UDP 3544.
- PS5/PS4: forward TCP 80, TCP 443, TCP 3478-3480, and UDP 3478-3479.
- Save the rules, restart the console, and recheck NAT type. Xbox should move toward Open. PlayStation should show Type 1 or Type 2.
More control
Try UPnP first if available
Universal Plug and Play lets consoles request ports automatically. It is less precise than manual forwarding, but it often fixes NAT with one router setting.
Double NAT breaks single-router forwarding
If an ISP gateway and your own router both route traffic, forwarding on one may not work. Put one device in bridge mode or forward through both.
CGNAT can make forwarding impossible
Some ISPs share public IPs across customers using Carrier-Grade NAT. Ask your ISP whether you have CGNAT if correct forwarding changes nothing.
Sources
- Microsoft Support – NAT types on Xbox (2025)
- PlayStation Support – Set up port forwarding for PS5 (2025)
- FCC Consumer Guide – Wireless Network Troubleshooting (2024)