How to Fix NAT Type Issues for Xbox and PlayStation Online Gaming on PC

What Causes This?

NAT type issues happen when your router or Windows network setup blocks the ports that Xbox services, PlayStation services, or multiplayer games need to connect properly. This usually leads to a Strict or Moderate NAT type instead of Open, which can interfere with matchmaking, party chat, and hosting sessions.

Common causes include UPnP being disabled on the router, double NAT from using two routers or a modem-router combo, blocked ports in Windows Firewall, or a VPN interfering with game traffic. In some cases, an outdated router configuration or ISP settings can also cause the problem.

Common Symptoms

• Xbox app, Xbox Game Bar, or a game shows NAT Type: Strict or Moderate
• You can sign in, but matchmaking takes a long time or fails
• Voice chat, party chat, or invites do not work reliably
• You disconnect often from multiplayer lobbies or cannot join friends
• Multiplayer works on some networks but not on your home connection

How to Fix It Manually

1. Check your current NAT type in Windows

   1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
   2. Go to Gaming > Xbox Networking on older Windows builds, or open the Xbox app and check network status there if available.
   3. Look for NAT Type and Server connectivity. If NAT shows Strict or Moderate, continue with the steps below.

2. Restart your modem, router, and PC

   1. Shut down your PC completely.
   2. Unplug your modem and router from power for 60 seconds.
   3. Plug the modem back in first, wait until it fully reconnects, then power on the router.
   4. Start your PC and test the connection again.
      This clears stuck sessions and often fixes temporary NAT detection problems.

3. Enable UPnP on your router

   1. Open a web browser and sign in to your router, usually at 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1.
   2. Find a setting called UPnP under Advanced, LAN, or NAT Forwarding.
   3. Turn UPnP On, then save and reboot the router.
   4. Test your NAT type again in Windows or your game.
      UPnP automatically opens the ports many games and console services need.

4. Remove double NAT if you have more than one network device

   1. Check whether you have both an ISP gateway and a separate Wi-Fi router connected.
   2. If both are routing traffic, you may be behind double NAT.
   3. Put the ISP device into Bridge Mode if supported, or switch your second router to Access Point Mode.
   4. Restart the network and test again.
      Double NAT is one of the most common reasons NAT stays Strict even after other fixes.

5. Allow gaming services through Windows Firewall

   1. Press Windows + S, type Windows Security, and open it.
   2. Go to Firewall & network protection > Allow an app through firewall.
   3. Click Change settings.
   4. Make sure your game, the Xbox app, and related services are allowed on Private networks, and Public if needed.
   5. If the app is missing, click Allow another app and add it manually.

6. Disable VPNs or network filtering tools

   1. Turn off any VPN, third-party firewall, traffic shaper, or “gaming booster” network filter.
   2. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager and close any network-related background tools you do not need.
   3. Test the game again.
      VPNs and filtering software often interfere with NAT detection and peer-to-peer connections.

7. Set up manual port forwarding if UPnP does not work

   1. Log in to your router and reserve a static IP for your PC in the DHCP or LAN settings.
   2. Open the router’s Port Forwarding section.
   3. Forward the ports required by your game, Xbox service, or PlayStation service to your PC’s local IP address.
   4. Save the settings and reboot the router.
      If you are unsure which ports to forward, check the official support page for the specific game or platform.

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