using kaspersky vpn gives me strict NAT type, why is that?

[TheOnurobo]

according to cod, with dmz enabled and no vpn i have open nat, and if i run the vpn my nat type immediately becomes strict, but as far as i know using a vpn should get rid of all the modem and firewall restrictions and give you open nat type, is there a way i can fix this?

[KarDip]

On 10/23/2024 at 3:08 AM, TheOnurobo said:

according to cod, with dmz enabled and no vpn i have open nat, and if i run the vpn my nat type immediately becomes strict, but as far as i know using a vpn should get rid of all the modem and firewall restrictions and give you open nat type, is there a way i can fix this?

Hello @TheOnurobo

You're correct that a VPN can bypass certain local network restrictions, but VPNs often cause NAT issues for online gaming because of how they route traffic. Let’s break down why this happens and some ways to try to maintain an open NAT.

Why the NAT Type Changes with a VPN

1. NAT Handling by VPN Providers: VPN servers often run their own NAT, which can limit the range of ports available to each user and result in a strict NAT.
2. Double NATing: When using a VPN, your gaming device (e.g., PS5) gets its IP address from the VPN server, but if that server is using NAT itself, it creates what’s known as a "double NAT." This essentially imposes two sets of NAT, resulting in a strict NAT type.

Steps to Achieve Open NAT with a VPN

1. Choose a VPN with Port Forwarding

• Some VPNs offer port forwarding, which can help you maintain an open or moderate NAT. This feature lets you designate specific ports for gaming traffic, making it more likely to have an open NAT.
• Unfortunately, Kaspersky VPN doesn't currently support port forwarding, so consider using a VPN service like NordVPN or ExpressVPN with this feature.

2. VPN Configuration on Your Router

• If you’re comfortable with configuring your network, you could try setting up the VPN directly on your router rather than on your gaming device. Doing this allows all traffic to pass through the VPN tunnel and can help maintain a more open NAT by bypassing local NAT policies.
• Ensure your router supports VPN client mode for this configuration.

3. Use a Dedicated VPN with Low NAT Restrictions

• Some gaming-focused VPNs or services offer gaming-optimized servers that are specifically designed to maintain open NAT types for online gaming. These servers often have fewer NAT restrictions and may provide better support for open NAT.

4. Check for VPN Split Tunneling (If Applicable)

• Some VPNs, including Kaspersky, support split tunneling, which allows you to send specific traffic through the VPN while routing gaming traffic directly through your internet connection. This could allow you to keep an open NAT for gaming while using the VPN for other activities on your network.

Additional Tip: Use UPnP or DMZ with VPN Off

• Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) or enabling a DMZ (demilitarized zone) on your router can also help keep your NAT open, though it only applies when the VPN is not active. Use this configuration when you’re not running the VPN, as these options may conflict with the VPN connection.

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Okay if these steps don’t yield an open NAT, please send a ticket to Kaspersky Technical support team who may provide tailored advice, especially they should have specific solutions for gaming NAT types.

Thank you