🎮 What's the Best NAT Type for Online Gaming?
If you’ve ever struggled with matchmaking issues, dropped voice chats, or failed game invites, your NAT type might be the hidden villain.
In online multiplayer gaming, not all NAT types are created equal. Some will give you flawless connections, while others can trap you in endless “Searching for players…” loops.
So — what’s the best NAT type for online gaming, and how can you get it?
Let’s break it down.
🔍 What Is NAT?
NAT stands for Network Address Translation — a process that lets multiple devices share one public IP address. While it keeps your home network secure, it can also affect how your console or PC connects with others online.
Your router determines what NAT type you get. Different routers and ISPs assign NAT types in different ways, often without you realizing it.
🧩 The 3 Common NAT Types in Gaming
| NAT Type | Description | Connectivity |
|---|---|---|
| Open NAT | Your device can send and receive data freely. | 🟢 Connects to all NAT types |
| Moderate NAT | Some restrictions, but you can still play. | 🟡 Connects to Open & Moderate |
| Strict NAT | Highly restrictive. Incoming connections are blocked. | đź”´ Only connects to Open NAT users |
âś… Best NAT Type for Gaming: Open NAT
🎮 Why Open NAT Is Better
- Faster matchmaking
- Stable voice chat
- Easier party invites
- Seamless co-op/multiplayer
- Lower disconnection rates
Whether you're playing Call of Duty, FIFA, Fortnite, GTA Online, or Rocket League, Open NAT gives you the fewest headaches.
❌ Problems With Strict or Moderate NAT
- “Can’t connect to host”
- “NAT type: Strict” warnings in game
- Voice chat not working
- Multiplayer lobby errors
These issues usually show up on Xbox, PlayStation, or PC when your device is behind a Symmetric NAT, Double NAT, or firewall-restricted router.
🛠️ How to Get Open NAT
Here are some proven ways to improve your NAT type:
- âś… Enable UPnP in your router settings
- âś… Use port forwarding for your console or game
- âś… Put your console in DMZ mode (if safe to do so)
- ✅ Avoid Double NAT — use bridge mode if you have two routers
- âś… Ask your ISP for a public IP (if behind CGNAT)
- âś… Use a gaming-friendly VPN with port forwarding support
🔍 Check Your NAT Type Now
Want to know your NAT type? Test it now using our free online NAT checker:
👉 Check your NAT at whatsmynat.com
âś… Final Thoughts
When it comes to online gaming, Open NAT is the gold standard. It unlocks smooth, low-latency multiplayer sessions and prevents annoying disconnection errors. If you're serious about your online experience, it's worth investing a few minutes to fix your NAT.
🎮 Less lag, more wins — with Open NAT.