NAT Type is like your Xbox’s doorway to connect to the internet to send or receive data. When this doorway is set to restrict, multiplayer games and online services might malfunction. This issue is known as a restricted or moderate NAT Type. (The ideal NAT Type is open as it does not interfere with multiplayer games’ connectivity methods.)
You can check your NAT Type by going into the Network Settings on your Xbox. It’s shown under the network name and details. You can also activate the “Test NAT Type” option to allow your console to double-check this setting.
If you’re experiencing issues playingonline multiplayer games on Xboxand suspect your NAT Type is the problem, follow these instructions to resolve it quickly.
What Causes NAT Type Issues on Xbox
The main reasons for a strict or moderate NAT Type include having a busy network, a Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) problem, and ISP network blockage.
You may still manage to download games or use yourXbox Game Pass subscription benefitson a restricted network. However, you might face connectivity issues while playing online multiplayer games.
Change NAT Type from the Advances Settings
The quickest way to change the NAT Type on Xbox is to set back IP, DNS, and Alternate Port Selection to automatic. If that doesn’t work, you can also toggle on QoS, DSCP, and WMM from the Advanced Settings in the Network Settings. It’s also worth clearing the console’s Alternate Mac Address and restarting it to open the NAT Type.
Set IP, DNS, and Alternate Port Selection Back to Automatic
You can also try changing the Alternate Port manually to see if it changes the NAT Type to open.
Prioritize Xbox on Your Network
QoS Tagging allows your Xbox to be the priority connection to the router, minimizing possible problems caused by router overload. (QoS Tagging was a new Xbox featurethat Microsoft introduced in 2022.)
Clear Alternate Mac Address
Power Cycle the Xbox and the Router
Unplug both your Xbox and the internet router for a couple of minutes. This will help power cycle the console and router, fixing any minor issues with the NAT Type. It would also be a good idea to connect the console to the router via a cable rather than wireless.
Contact the Internet Service Provider
If none of the fixes can change your NAT Type to open, attempt to contact your internet service providers. If the restriction is on their side, they should be able to guide you through the steps to resolve it or even go ahead and fix it for you.
