What is port triggering? (2024)

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Port triggering is a dynamic extension of port forwarding. Unlike port forwarding, which is always active after it is configured, port triggering works by creating a port forwarding rule (inbound firewall rule) that is only activated when it is triggered by detecting specified outbound packets. After the rule is triggered,specified inbound packets (from the Internet) are forwarded to the computer that triggered it.

Port triggering has some advantages over port forwarding:

  • Port forwarding requires that you specify a device’s IP address during configuration, and the IP address can never change. Port triggering does not require that you know a device’s IP address in advance; the IP address is captured automatically.
  • Port forwarding is configured for a single device on your network. Port triggering can be used by any device on your network, although only one computer can use it at a time.
  • Port forwarding creates a static mapping of a port number or range of ports to a single local computer. Port triggering can dynamically open ports to any computer when needed and close the ports when they are no longer needed.

Port triggering is particularly useful for applications that must open incoming ports that are different from the outgoing port, or if you have an application that must use port forwarding to more than one local computer (but not simultaneously).

For port triggering setup instructions, see the following articles:

For more information:

Last Updated:03/16/2022 | Article ID: 24295

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What is port triggering? (2024)

FAQs

What does port triggering do? ›

Port Trigger allows you to temporarily open data ports when LAN devices require unrestricted access to the Internet. There are two methods for opening incoming data ports: port forwarding and port trigger. Port forwarding opens the specified data ports all the time and devices must use static IP addresses.

Is port triggering good for gaming? ›

Yes, port triggering is good for gaming as it provides network stability while playing games and makes the connection secure.

What is port triggering Xfinity? ›

Port triggering offers a more secure alternative. The advantage is a rule put in place that has the inbound port open only when you initiate a session on that port. Once the session is dropped, the port is closed to random inbound traffic, and your WiFi network is closed to any potential hacker.

What is the difference between port triggering and NAT? ›

When local network devices are behind a NAT router, port forwarding is generally used to reach one local computer, as you need to specify the target IP address (or hostname). Port triggering is a dynamic extension to port forwarding. It can open ports temporarily and close them when not in use.

Should I turn on port triggering? ›

Port triggering is particularly useful for applications that must open incoming ports that are different from the outgoing port, or if you have an application that must use port forwarding to more than one local computer (but not simultaneously).

Is port triggering safer? ›

Port Forwarding is not that risky because it relies on your network safety and the targeted ports that you are using. The whole process is actually safe as long as you have a security firewall or a VPN connection on your computer or network.

Is port triggering safer than port forwarding? ›

This means that any device on your network can initiate the connection, though only one can use it at a time. In port forwarding, you have to define the specific device using the connection. Depending on your router and your devices, this can make port triggering either a more or less secure choice than forwarding.

Does port triggering reduce ping? ›

Port forwarding can negligibly reduce ping. While it makes the connection more direct when receiving data, it does nothing for sending data. So, if you think that you didn't score that kill because your shot didn't register on the server on time, port forwarding couldn't have helped you.

Which is better, port forwarding or port triggering? ›

Port triggering is similar to port forwarding but a little more secure. The difference is that the trigger port is not always open for that specific traffic. After a resource on your LAN sends outbound traffic through a trigger port, the router listens for inbound traffic through a specified port or port range.

What is an example of a port trigger? ›

The port trigger is what you want your router to accept and forward to your target. For example, port 33444 is the trigger, and port 3389 is the target. So 33444->3389.

What is port forwarding and port triggering in router? ›

Port forwarding opens a port range for services such as internet gaming that uses alternate ports to communicate between the server and the LAN host. Port triggering allows a specified port or port range to open for inbound traffic after user sends outbound traffic through the trigger port.

Does Xfinity block port forwarding? ›

At this time, xFi only supports port forwards to be set up for devices with an IPv4 address. If the device is connected to your network, but not showing as an available device in the dropdown, it could be because it's using an IPv6 address.

Is port triggering the same as UPnP? ›

Port Triggering...the router senses when a port is trying to listen...from a service you have behind the NAT..and it opens, upon demand. It's sort of a predecessor to UPnP. It's done by the router.

What is DMZ on a router? ›

A DMZ or demilitarized zone is a perimeter network that protects and adds an extra layer of security to an organization's internal local-area network from untrusted traffic.

How to check if a port is open? ›

If you would like to test ports on your computer, use the Windows command prompt and the CMD command netstat -ano. Windows will show you all currently existing network connections via open ports or open, listening ports that are currently not establishing a connection.

Which is better, port triggering or forwarding? ›

Port triggering is similar to port forwarding but a little more secure. The difference is that the trigger port is not always open for that specific traffic. After a resource on your LAN sends outbound traffic through a trigger port, the router listens for inbound traffic through a specified port or port range.

What is the purpose of port blocking? ›

When a port is blocked, data can't move through it. There are certain ports that aren't necessary for everyday internet use, but they are commonly used for network attacks. Blocking these ports helps to protect our users from security threats.

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