Windows 10 does not display one universal “NAT type” value for every game and network connection. NAT status is mainly determined by your router and Internet connection, while individual games or services may label it Open, Moderate, Strict, Type 1/2/3, or something else.
Check the NAT status that matters to your game
- Open the game or gaming service that is having multiplayer or voice-chat trouble.
- Look in its network, connection, or diagnostics screen for a NAT status.
- If the game has no NAT test, sign in to your router and review its Internet/WAN and UPnP status.
- Confirm that your Windows network connection itself is working before changing router settings.
- Compare the router’s WAN address with the public address reported by a reputable IP-checking service if you suspect carrier-grade NAT or double NAT.
Do not open random ports just to get “Open NAT”
Port forwarding exposes selected inbound traffic to a device. Only forward ports that the game’s current official documentation actually requires, and direct them to the correct local device. Avoid broad DMZ settings as a first-line fix.
Double NAT can cause problems
If you have an ISP gateway plus your own router, both devices may be performing NAT. That can interfere with some peer-to-peer games. Depending on the equipment, the clean solution may involve access-point mode, bridge/passthrough mode, or carefully configured forwarding. Do not change ISP gateway settings without knowing how Internet and phone services are provisioned.
Carrier-grade NAT is controlled by the ISP
If the router receives a private or shared address from the provider, local port forwarding may not create inbound reachability. Ask the ISP about a public IPv4 address or use the game’s supported relay/IPv6 options when available.
Windows 10 standard support ended in October 2025. NAT troubleshooting principles still apply, but gaming PCs should use a supported operating system when possible.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.