If you have to askhow to open ports for PS4 or PS5, it means one thing. you may’t play online, or your multiplayer sessions are problematic and limited.
In particular, when you test your internet connection on PS4 or PS5, you see your NAT Type, and it’s either Strict or Moderate. Other gamers have various router brands, and router settings can vary per user.
So, your NAT configuration may be limiting your ability to play online or play with your friends. It may also limit other online functions, such asvoice chatsand streaming.
Luckily, opening the ports on PlayStation is the same on either console. The difficult part is changing the specific settings on your router, but we’re guiding you in detail.
Now, if you came looking for answers as an Xbox One or Xbox Series user, here’s the guide you need.
What Does “NAT Type” Mean?
NAT (Network Address Translation) is a security protocol that comes in-built with your router. It determines the online features devices on a WiFi or ethernet network can use.
In gaming, when you join multiplayer sessions, you create the lobby (host) or join a lobby (server). Your Nat Type influences your ability to join or to create lobbies.
There’re three NAT Types:
Can You Change the NAT Type on PS4 and PS5?
you may change your router’s NAT configuration, affecting your console’s NAT configuration.
Doing so requires opening the ports for PS4 and PS5. Another term for the process isport forwardingthe PlayStation.
What is Port Forwarding?
Before we begin, let me explain whatport forwarding means. It’s forcing your device, which works on a private network, to connect to the internet while using specific public or private services.
Then, aportis a number that identifies a connection endpoint capable of directing data to specific services.