How to Port Forward MoFi Router and Access External Networks

  • By Farrukh Mushtaq

    Farrukh Mushtaq

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    Farrukh Mushtaq, a digital marketer at PureSquare, possesses a keen interest in cybersecurity and enjoys writing about it. With several years of experience in the digital marketing industry, he brings expertise and passion to his work.

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  • 2 January 2025
  • 7 mins read

Table of Content

Table of Contents

How does port forwarding work and why is it important for a MoFi router? The answer is that it facilitates easy connections between devices on your home network and external networks. MoFi router Port forwarding can improve gaming, streaming, and remote access. This guide describes how to configure port forwarding even behind CGNAT with a simple solution.

What is Port Forwarding?

Port forwarding is a networking technique that allows devices and servers outside a private network to access applications, services, or devices running inside that network. In simpler terms, it's like creating a special pathway through your router's firewall to allow specific traffic to reach a particular device on your home network.

Things To Prepare Before MoFi Router Port Forwarding 

Before diving into configuration, here is the checklist for MoFi Router Port Forwarding Setup:

  1. Assign a fixed internal IP to the device to avoid disruptions.
  2. Identify the ports needed for your application or service.
  3. Ensure you have your MoFi router and your MoFi router’s login credentials ready.
  4. Confirm a reliable internet connection for smooth configuration.

What are the Necessary Ports to Forward? 

The following are some common ports your MoFi router may use to provide network services:

  • TCP port 80: HTTP web traffic
  • TCP port 443: HTTPS web traffic
  • UDP port 53: DNS queries
  • TCP/UDP port 67: DHCP server traffic
  • TCP/UDP port 123: NTP traffic
  • TCP port 21: FTP traffic
  • TCP/UDP port 161: SNMP traffic
  • TCP/UDP port 137-139: NetBIOS traffic
  • TCP/UDP port 445: SMB traffic
  • TCP/UDP port 3389: RDP traffic

How to Configure MoFi Router Port Forwarding Manually

Setting up MoFi Router port forwarding involves the simple steps below:

  • Go to your computer’s Command Prompt and type ipconfig.
  • This command will show your router's IP address.
  • Enter the IP address of your router (usually 192.168.1.1) in a browser window. Enter your login information.
  • Mostly, the username is admin, and the password is also admin.
  • You can also ask your ISP to get this information.
  • Go to the router's admin panel and choose the "Advanced Settings" or "Port Forwarding" section.
  • Click "Add" or "Create New Rule" and enter the following:

Service Name: Give the rule a name (e.g., "Gaming Console").

Internal IP Address: Enter the static IP of the device.

Protocol: Choose TCP, UDP, or both, depending on the service.

Port Range: Specify the required port(s).

  • Confirm your changes and restart the router if needed.
  • Use online tools like “WhatIsMyIP" to check if the ports are open.

Can You Enable Open Ports if You Are Behind CGNAT?

No, you cannot directly enable open ports if you are behind Carrier-Grade Network Address Translation. CGNAT is a technique used by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to conserve IPv4 addresses. It allows multiple users to share a single public IP address. Port forwarding relies on having a unique public IP address. Since CGNAT assigns the same public IP to multiple users, incoming traffic cannot be specifically directed to your device.

Why Does Your ISP Use CGNAT?

Your ISP uses CGNAT to conserve IPv4 addresses. How? By giving multiple users a single public IP. It is an effective way to distribute IP to millions but a drawback for port forwarding. Don't worry. We have a way to port forward the MoFi router behind CGNAT. 

How to Overcome CGNAT and Open Ports for MoFi Router 

When you are behind CGNAT, opening ports and performing high-paced tasks, such as gaming and connecting to remote servers are restricted. Plus, sometimes your firewall will not allow certain applications and ports to work efficiently. 

With PureVPN’s port forwarding add-on, you can easily overcome the hassle of opening and managing ports for efficient internet access. Bypassing CGNAT becomes easy, as you are behind an encrypted connection that keeps your identity hidden. 

Here’s how to get it:

  • Log into your PureVPN member area.
  • Select the Subscription tab.
  • Navigate to the Configure menu.
  • Choose the desired port settings.
  • Apply with a single click [it’s that easy!]

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Can I port forward multiple devices on a MoFi router?

    Plus

    Yes, however a distinct port or port range must be used by each device.

  • Is port forwarding safe on a MoFi router?

    Plus

    No, port forwarding isn’t completely safe on any of the routers. You could open ports that might be malicious or could misconfigure the settings. It is always a better idea to use PureVPN so that your data is encrypted while you open ports.

  • Do I need a static IP for port forwarding?

    Plus

    Yes, a static local IP ensures that the right device is connected to the forwarding rules.

Summary

Port forwarding is key to smooth access, gaming, streaming, or remote services. But what if you can not open ports due to CGNAT, PureVPN port forwarding and a dedicated IP add-on are what you need.