Hello, Reader technogigs!
Are you struggling with strict NAT type on your college WiFi? NAT type is your network’s security feature that can restrict online gaming or voice chat. Fortunately, there is a solution to this problem. In this article, we will guide you through the process of turning off strict NAT type on your college WiFi, allowing you to have access to online gaming and voice chat.
Introduction
Before we dive into the process, let’s first understand the basics of NAT type and its importance. NAT stands for Network Address Translation. It is a process where multiple devices share the same IP address on the network. Hence, NAT helps manage the routing of traffic between devices on the same network. NAT type also plays a crucial role in gaming.
This feature categorizes the gaming consoles and devices into three types of NAT:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Open | Allows you to play and chat with gamers regardless of their NAT type. |
| Moderate | You can only play and chat with gamers who have an open NAT type or moderate NAT type. |
| Strict | You can only play and chat with gamers who have an open NAT type. |
Having strict NAT type can restrict your online gaming experience and can make it challenging for you to communicate with other players. Therefore, it’s essential to change your NAT type from strict to open.
Let’s move on to the steps on how to turn off strict NAT type on college WiFi.
Steps to Turn Off Strict NAT Type on College WiFi
Step 1: Log in to Your College WiFi Router
The first step is to log in to your college WiFi router. You can do this by typing the router’s IP address into your web browser. If you’re unsure of the router’s IP address, you can search for it online or contact your college’s IT department.
Step 2: Find the UPnP Setting
Once you’ve logged in to your router, locate the UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) setting. It’s usually located under the router’s advanced settings tab.
Step 3: Enable UPnP
Turn ON the UPnP feature in your router’s settings. Enabling UPnP ensures that your NAT type will remain open, making it easier for you to communicate with other gamers.
Step 4: Restart Your Router
After enabling UPnP, restart your router. This step helps apply the changes that you’ve made to your router’s settings.
Step 5: Test Your NAT Type
Finally, test your NAT type to see if you’ve successfully changed it from strict to open. You can check your NAT type on your gaming console or any device that you use for gaming.
Step 6: Contact Your IT Department
If the above steps fail to turn off strict NAT type, you can contact your college’s IT department and seek their assistance. An IT professional can access the router and configure the settings for you.
Strengths and Weaknesses of Turning Off Strict NAT Type on College WiFi
Turning off strict NAT type on college WiFi has its pros and cons. Let’s dive deeper into each of these factors below:
Strengths
1. Better Gaming Experience
With an open NAT type, you can enjoy a seamless online gaming experience. You can quickly connect with other players and communicate more effectively during the gameplay.
2. More Reliable Internet Connection
By disabling strict NAT type, you’re opening up the ports that allow the network traffic to flow freely. This ensures that your internet connection is more stable and reliable.
3. Multiple Devices Can Connect
Allowing multiple devices to connect to the network is another benefit of turning off strict NAT type. This feature is particularly helpful in shared dorm rooms or apartments where more than one person uses the same network and gaming devices.
Weaknesses
1. Security Threats
Disabling strict NAT type can pose some security risks to your network. Port forwarding is essential for gaming, but it also increases the vulnerability of your network. But, with UPnP enabled, your network is restoring the security features.
2. Changes in Router’s Configuration Settings
Changing the configuration settings of your router can be a bit challenging. If you’re not tech-savvy, you can seek help from an IT professional at your college.
3. Limited Access
Some college networks don’t allow disabling strict NAT type. In this case, seeking help from your college’s IT department is your best option.
FAQs
Q1: What is NAT Type?
NAT stands for Network Address Translation. It is a process where multiple devices share the same IP address on the network.
Q2: What are the different types of NAT?
There are three types of NAT: Open, Moderate and Strict.
Q3: Why is it important to change NAT Type?
Changing NAT type from strict to open can enhance your gaming experience and improve the stability of your internet connection.
Q4: Can I disable strict NAT type myself?
Yes, you can disable strict NAT type by enabling UPnP in your router’s settings.
Q5: What if the steps mentioned above fail to turn off strict NAT type?
You can contact your college’s IT department for assistance.
Q6: Does turning off strict NAT type pose any security threats?
Yes, turning off strict NAT type can increase the vulnerability of your network.
Q7: Can multiple devices connect to the network after disabling strict NAT type?
Yes, multiple devices can connect to the network after disabling strict NAT type.
Conclusion
By following the above steps, you can easily turn off strict NAT type on your college WiFi. Although changing your router’s settings can be a bit tricky, the benefits of changing the NAT type from strict to open are immense. Always remember that UPnP is an essential feature to keep your network safe and secure. If you’re not tech-savvy, don’t hesitate to seek help from your college’s IT department. Good luck and happy gaming!
Disclaimer
The methods mentioned above are only for educational purposes. We do not hold any responsibility for any damages or inconveniences that may arise while following these steps. Proceed at your own risk.