NAT type is strict and you can't join your friends' games
A strict NAT type means your router is blocking game connections. The quickest fix is to plug your console into the router with a network cable instead of using WiFi. This fixes it for most people. If you can't use a cable, you'll need to forward a port on your router, which takes about 10 minutes.
Your router acts like a security guard for your internet connection. It blocks incoming connections to keep you safe. A strict NAT type means it's blocking too much and won't let your friends connect to your game session. Switching from WiFi to a network cable is the easiest fix because it gives your console a direct, permanent connection that the router recognizes right away. If a cable isn't an option, forwarding a port on your router tells it to let game traffic through.
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Skip — I just want a technicianCommon mistakes to avoid
- Forgetting to restart the console after plugging in the network cable. It needs to reconnect to register the new setup
- Trying to join a game immediately before the NAT type has updated. Wait 30 seconds after the connection test
- Forwarding the wrong ports. Game connections use specific ports like 3074 and 3478, not random ones
Signs you need professional help
- You've switched to a network cable and restarted the router but NAT is still strict. You can't access your router's settings or you're not sure which ports to forward. Your router is older and doesn't have a port forwarding option.
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