Configuring pfSense Software for Online Gaming¶
This page provides information on using pfSense® software with online games.
First, many games will require the use of Static Port or UPnP/NAT-PMP.
See also
The Netgate Forum often has a wide array of threads for specific games and consoles. Search there for games if they are not listed here.
Note
There was a bug with UPnP and multiple client devices on the same network that is fixed in pfSense Plus software version 22.05 and pfSense CE software version 2.7.0.
There is a patch available through the System Patches Package which can correct this bug on some past versions as well.
Specific Game/Console Information¶
This section contains recommendations for specific consoles types and games. If a game or console requires special handling but is not listed here, please submit a documentation update. Include a link to manufacturer documentation when possible.
Warning
What works to make a single console/device work from behind a firewall may not work for multiple consoles/devices behind the same firewall.
What works to allow a client to play an online game may not work for hosting an online game.
Hosting an online game and connecting a client to the same online game from behind the same firewall may not work, but as with everything else, it varies by game/console.
Nintendo Switch¶
Nintendo Switch consoles require a Static Port setup. See Static Port.
Nintendo Wii/Wii U/3DS¶
These consoles do not require any special configuration, though some cases may require UPnP (UPnP/NAT-PMP).
Steam / Steam Deck¶
Varies by game, but typically UPnP/NAT-PMP or manual port forwards are sufficient. Some games may require Static Port.
Xbox¶
Modern Xbox consoles, including multiple consoles, work well with UPnP/NAT-PMP in many cases.
Some games or situations may require Static Port, See Static Port.
See also
Playstation¶
Single consoles work well with UPnP/NAT-PMP though multiple consoles can be problematic. When multiple consoles are on the same network, Playstation devices do not automatically attempt to use a different port if they cannot use their preferred port.
Tip
In a mixed environment with Playstation and other console types, start the game on Playstation first so it can get the port it wants, then start other clients which will properly notice the port is in use and shift to alternate ports.
Some games or situations may require Static Port, See Static Port.
Gunz Online¶
To play on multiple machines behind a firewall running pfSense software, configure each Gunz Online client with a different port. Visit NAT > Outbound and setup a custom static port entry for each machine using the appropriate custom port.