GoKawiilExplainer: how NAT type affects online gaming connections
NAT type describes how easily a gaming device can communicate over the internet, with Open, Moderate and Strict tiers on Xbox and PC (and equivalents on PlayStation and Switch). Open allows unrestricted connections but isn't practical or secure for most setups since it bypasses router protections, while Moderate works behind a router and Strict blocks necessary ports, causing matchmaking issues.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
Understanding NAT type matters most for peer-to-peer games, where a Strict NAT can prevent players from joining friends or finding matches at all. Players troubleshooting connection problems may benefit from knowing that aiming for Moderate, not necessarily Open, balances connectivity with network security.
- NAT types vary by platform: Open/Moderate/Strict on Xbox and PC, Type 1/2/3 on PlayStation, A/B/C/D/F on Switch.
- Open NAT isn't ideal despite its name, since it removes router security protections.
- Strict NAT limits players to only connecting with Open NAT users, increasing matchmaking errors in peer-to-peer games.
Netgear Nighthawk Pro Gaming Router — A good gaming router makes it much easier to get Moderate/Open NAT by giving you easy port forwarding and UPnP controls instead of fighting carrier-grade NAT or weak default routers. The Nighthawk Pro Gaming line is built specifically with gaming traffic prioritization and port management in mind, which directly helps with the NAT issues described in the article. It's a practical upgrade for anyone tired of Strict NAT messing up online matches.
See Netgear Nighthawk Pro Gaming Router on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: engadget.com — Ben Stegner, 2026-11-07
Published there as: “What does NAT type mean for online gaming?”
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