ISP change now affects port forwarding for specific games.
ISP change now affects port forwarding for specific games.
Hello everyone, I set up a dedicated gaming server in 2020. I’ve run it with just one game or several at once without any problems. Some titles I’ve hosted include Minecraft (Java), Valheim (Steam), Terraria (Steam), Ark: Survival Evolved (XBOX Game Pass), and now Project Zomboid (Steam). My previous internet provider was Shaw, and I faced no trouble with port forwarding. Friends, family, and I have spent many hours on the server. Recently, prices increased, so I switched to Telus. With my Shaw contract ending and rogues acquisition costs rising, Telus fiber offered better speeds. After switching ISPs, I reset the router and modem/router to bridge mode. We were playing Valheim when we switched ISPs. Everything worked fine—no issues at all. My nephews wanted Minecraft again, but port forwarding didn’t function. They also asked about setting up Project Zomboid, but I couldn’t get it working either. When checking ports, Valheim and Minecraft ports appeared open, yet they weren’t forwarded. Even though I can play all my home servers locally, the problem persists when trying to access them remotely. I’ve tried disabling ping blocking and stealth mode on the modem, but the server still doesn’t respond. When I was with Shaw, I could ping successfully and confirm ports were open. It’s unclear if this matters, but I’m certain the issue lies elsewhere—possibly with the modem or ISP blocking the ports. I’ve also turned off firewall protection to rule out that as the cause. I’m at a loss and need guidance.
I usually configure my ISP's single device as the main router, placing my personal router in the DMZ. This way everything goes straight through without hitting their firewall rules. My own router then serves as both the router and firewall. Port forwarding isn't typically needed here, though it might be required at your local router if NAT is involved. I haven't set up port forwarding myself because NAT usually handles what I need for accessing home devices online, and none of those devices are servers.
Check ISPs for port restrictions by searching online. Look up the ports they block and consider using different ones as alternatives.
Telus might use a CG-NAT setup, according to another forum. They contacted support and requested removal from NAT444 to switch to NAT44. I plan to reach out to Telus tomorrow to check the change. https://forum.telus.com/t5/Internet-Home...m-p/131213
I verified the setup: the Telus modem/router operates in bridge mode, not as a standalone router. The router manages the ports. I checked the cabling and saw the modem’s bridging port labeled "Bridging Port 1." Looking back, the router was connected to port 4, which is where the technician installed it during network setup. I switched the cable to port one. Now admin functions on the modem are unavailable, though the internet works. Friends still can’t join the game server.
Check if your internet service provider provides a fixed IP address.
Telus doesn't provide static IP via residential plans; it costs more than what I pay plus extra fees. My business internet is double my current plan with an additional charge for a static IP. Telus business tech guided me in properly bridging the port and suggested checking blocked ports on their forum. https://forum.telus.com/t5/Internet-Home...m-p/113634 I'm planning to try this next if it doesn't work. It was suggested to consider a VPN workaround or setting up a VPS through a VPN, with many guides available online. I'll update on my progress.