What Ports Gaming NAT: Open Ports for Gaming (US)

Network Address Translation (NAT) is a critical process impacting online gaming experiences, especially for players in the United States. Gamers in the US often encounter connectivity issues if their NAT type is too restrictive, leading many to investigate what ports gaming NAT utilizes to improve their connection. Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) technology, a feature found in many home routers, is often used to automatically configure these port mappings, but manual configuration may sometimes be necessary to achieve an Open NAT. Microsoft’s Xbox and other gaming platforms provide NAT type indicators that help users diagnose and troubleshoot their network settings, highlighting the importance of understanding port configurations for optimal gameplay.

NAT: The Unsung Hero (and Villain) of Online Gaming

Network Address Translation (NAT) is a cornerstone of modern internet connectivity, yet it often lurks in the background, misunderstood and underappreciated. Its impact on online gaming is significant, making it both a necessary enabler and a frequent source of frustration.

What is NAT? A Concise Explanation

At its core, NAT acts as an intermediary between your internal network (your home network) and the external internet.

Think of it as a translator. It takes requests from devices on your home network and translates them into a language the internet understands, and vice versa.

This translation is crucial for several reasons, primarily related to IP address management.

The Necessity of NAT: Sharing a Single IP Address

In the early days of the internet, every device had its own unique public IP address.

However, the pool of available IPv4 addresses is finite and has been largely exhausted.

NAT solves this problem by allowing multiple devices within a private network to share a single public IP address.

Your router, acting as a NAT gateway, assigns private IP addresses to each device on your network.

When a device sends a request to the internet, the router translates its private IP address and port number to the public IP address and a unique port number.

This way, all devices appear to be coming from the same IP address.

The NAT Paradox: Connectivity vs. Gaming Woes

While NAT is essential for connecting multiple devices to the internet, it also introduces complexities that can negatively impact online gaming.

The primary issue is that NAT can restrict incoming connections.

This is because the router, by default, only allows incoming connections that are in response to a request initiated from within the network.

This restriction can create problems for games that rely on peer-to-peer connections, or that require players to host game servers.

Players behind a restrictive NAT may have difficulty connecting to other players, experience lag, or be unable to join certain games at all.

Understanding NAT: The Key to Better Gaming

The impact of NAT on gaming should not be overlooked. Understanding how NAT works and how to configure it properly is vital for optimizing your online gaming experience.

By grasping the basics of NAT types and port forwarding, you can significantly improve your ability to connect to game servers and other players, reduce lag, and enjoy a smoother, more seamless gaming experience.

Ports: The Gateways to Network Communication

To understand how to optimize NAT for gaming, it’s crucial to introduce the concept of ports. Ports are virtual doorways that allow different applications on your computer or gaming console to communicate with the internet.

These ports are essential for directing network traffic to the correct application or service.

Different games and online services use specific ports to send and receive data. By understanding which ports are used by your favorite games, you can configure your NAT settings to allow traffic through those ports, improving your connectivity.

Decoding Ports and Protocols: TCP vs. UDP

Following our introduction to NAT and the crucial role of ports in network communication, let’s delve deeper into understanding these ports and the protocols that govern them.

Knowing the distinction between TCP and UDP is fundamental to understanding and optimizing your gaming experience.

Ports: The Virtual Doorways of the Internet

Imagine a building with many different rooms, each serving a specific purpose.

Ports are like those rooms, but in the digital world.

Each port acts as a dedicated channel for specific types of network traffic.

When data is sent across the internet, it’s directed to a specific port on a device, ensuring it reaches the correct application or service.

Think of port numbers as extensions to your IP address; together, they define the exact destination for information on your network.

TCP vs. UDP: Understanding the Key Differences

The two primary protocols that dictate how data is transmitted over the internet are TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) and UDP (User Datagram Protocol).

While both facilitate communication, they operate with fundamentally different approaches and are suited for different tasks.

Understanding these differences is critical for understanding NAT and why certain port configurations can improve your gaming experience.

TCP: Reliability Above All

TCP is a connection-oriented protocol, meaning it establishes a dedicated connection between two devices before any data is transmitted.

This connection is maintained throughout the communication, ensuring reliable data delivery.

TCP also incorporates error checking and retransmission mechanisms, guaranteeing that data arrives in the correct order and without corruption.

This reliability comes at a cost: TCP involves more overhead, making it slower than UDP.

Because of this, TCP is well-suited for applications where data integrity is paramount, such as file downloads, web browsing (HTTPS), and email.

UDP: Speed and Efficiency Take the Lead

UDP, in contrast, is a connectionless protocol.

It doesn’t establish a dedicated connection before sending data.

Instead, it simply sends packets of data to the destination, without guaranteeing delivery or order.

This "fire-and-forget" approach makes UDP significantly faster than TCP, as it eliminates the overhead associated with connection establishment and error checking.

However, this speed comes at the expense of reliability.

Packets sent via UDP may be lost, arrive out of order, or become corrupted without the protocol automatically correcting these issues.

UDP’s Dominance in Online Gaming

Given its inherent unreliability, why is UDP the preferred protocol for online gaming? The answer lies in latency.

In gaming, even slight delays can significantly impact the player experience.

TCP’s error-checking and retransmission mechanisms, while ensuring data integrity, introduce latency that can be detrimental to real-time gameplay.

UDP’s speed, even with the risk of occasional packet loss, is more crucial for providing a smooth and responsive gaming experience.

Minor packet loss is often imperceptible to the player, whereas high latency results in lag, rubberbanding, and overall poor performance.

Game developers often implement their error correction mechanisms on top of UDP to provide the optimum balance between reliability and low latency.

Common UDP Ports Used in Gaming

Configuring your NAT to allow UDP traffic on specific ports can dramatically improve your gaming experience. Here are some common UDP ports used by popular games and voice chat services:

• Steam Games: 27015-27030 (typically used for game traffic and voice chat)
• Fortnite: 7700-7799 (game traffic)
• Call of Duty: Varies by game and platform; consult the game’s documentation or online resources.
• Overwatch: 3478, 3479, 5060, 5062, 6250, 12000-64000
• Discord: Varies, but commonly 50000-60000

Note: The specific ports used by a game can vary. Always refer to the official documentation for the most accurate information.

By understanding the differences between TCP and UDP, and by properly configuring your network to accommodate UDP traffic, you can take significant steps towards optimizing your online gaming experience.

NAT Types: Open, Moderate, and Strict – A Gaming Connectivity Spectrum

Navigating the world of Network Address Translation (NAT) can feel like deciphering a secret code, especially when it comes to online gaming. The type of NAT you have directly impacts your ability to connect to game servers and other players, essentially defining your place on the gaming connectivity spectrum.

Understanding the nuances of Open, Moderate, and Strict NAT types is crucial for diagnosing and resolving connection issues, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable online gaming experience.

Understanding the NAT Spectrum: Open, Moderate, and Strict

Think of NAT types as filters that determine who you can communicate with online. Each type offers a different level of accessibility and comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Open NAT: The Universal Connector

An Open NAT, sometimes referred to as Type 1, provides the most unrestricted connectivity. It’s the ideal scenario for gamers. With an Open NAT, you can connect to anyone, regardless of their NAT type.

This ease of connection eliminates potential compatibility issues and ensures seamless multiplayer gameplay. You’re essentially the digital equivalent of a universal translator, capable of communicating with all players on the network.

Moderate NAT: A Compromised Connection

A Moderate NAT, also known as Type 2, offers a middle ground between unrestricted and restricted connectivity. While you can connect to players with Open or Moderate NAT types, you may encounter difficulties connecting to those with a Strict NAT.

This can lead to frustrating situations where you’re unable to join certain game lobbies or connect with specific friends online. Moderate NAT types typically require some configuration to achieve optimal connectivity.

Strict NAT: The Isolated Player

A Strict NAT, or Type 3, is the most restrictive of the three. Gamers with a Strict NAT can only connect to players with Open NAT types.

This severely limits their ability to participate in online multiplayer games and can result in frequent connection errors and disconnections. A Strict NAT is generally the least desirable option for gamers.

Impact on Gaming: The Consequences of NAT Type

The NAT type assigned to your network directly influences your ability to connect to game servers and other players. This impact can manifest in various ways:

• Connectivity Issues: Strict NAT types often experience difficulty connecting to certain game servers or joining specific lobbies, leading to frustration and limited gameplay options.

• Voice Chat Problems: NAT restrictions can interfere with voice chat functionality, making it difficult to communicate with teammates during online matches.

• Lag and Latency: In some cases, restrictive NAT types can contribute to increased lag and latency, negatively impacting the overall gaming experience.

• Troubleshooting Complexity: Identifying and resolving NAT-related issues can be challenging, requiring a deeper understanding of network configuration and troubleshooting techniques.

CGNAT: The ISP’s Impact on Your Gaming Experience

CGNAT (Carrier-Grade NAT) is a NAT implementation used by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to conserve IPv4 addresses. While it solves a problem for ISPs, it can introduce a new layer of complexity and frustration for gamers.

In essence, CGNAT places another NAT layer on top of your home network’s NAT, potentially exacerbating connectivity issues. This double-NAT scenario can make it significantly more difficult to achieve an Open NAT type, even with proper router configuration.

• Limited Troubleshooting: CGNAT makes it harder to troubleshoot NAT issues, as the problem resides outside of your home network.

• Port Forwarding Challenges: Port forwarding, a common method for improving NAT type, may not work effectively with CGNAT, as the ISP controls the external NAT.

• Contacting Your ISP: If you suspect CGNAT is affecting your gaming experience, contacting your ISP is often the only course of action. They may be able to provide assistance or offer solutions, such as assigning you a public IP address (often for an additional fee).

Unlocking Connectivity: Methods for Improving Your NAT Type

After grappling with the potential limitations of NAT types, the natural question arises: how can you improve your NAT type for a smoother gaming experience? Fortunately, several methods exist to navigate these network obstacles. The primary techniques are port forwarding, UPnP (Universal Plug and Play), and, as a last resort, implementing a DMZ (Demilitarized Zone).

Each approach offers a different level of complexity and security trade-offs. Choosing the right method depends on your technical expertise and risk tolerance. Let’s delve into each of these techniques, offering a hands-on guide to optimizing your NAT type.

Port Forwarding: A Hands-On Guide

Port forwarding is a manual method that involves configuring your router to direct specific network traffic (identified by port numbers) to a particular device on your local network.

Think of it as creating a dedicated lane for gaming traffic, bypassing the NAT firewall and allowing for direct communication with game servers. This method is generally the most reliable but requires a bit more technical know-how.

Accessing Your Router Configuration

The first step in port forwarding is accessing your router’s configuration page. This is typically done through a web browser. Open your browser and enter your router’s IP address into the address bar.

The most common router IP addresses are 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. If these don’t work, you can find your router’s IP address through your computer’s network settings. Once you’ve entered the IP address, you’ll be prompted for a username and password.

These are usually printed on a sticker on the router itself. If you’ve changed them previously and forgotten, you may need to reset your router to factory settings (be aware that this will erase all your current router configurations).

Finding the Right Ports

The next crucial step is identifying the correct TCP and UDP ports that your game or gaming platform requires. These ports act as the “doorways” for network traffic, and you need to open the correct ones to allow your game to communicate effectively.

Game developers and platform providers (PlayStation Network (PSN), Xbox Live (Xbox Network), Nintendo Switch Online) typically publish lists of required ports on their websites. A simple web search for “[Game Name] port forwarding” or “[Platform Name] port requirements” will usually lead you to the necessary information.

For example, you might search for “Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 port forwarding” or “PlayStation Network port requirements.” Accurate port information is essential for successful port forwarding.

Configuring Port Forwarding

Once you have the correct ports, navigate to the port forwarding section of your router’s configuration page. This section may be labeled differently depending on your router’s manufacturer (e.g., “Port Forwarding,” “NAT Forwarding,” “Virtual Servers”).

You’ll typically need to enter the following information for each port you want to forward:

• Service Name/Description: A descriptive name for the rule (e.g., "COD MW3 TCP," "Xbox Live UDP").
• Port Range: The port number or range of port numbers you want to forward (e.g., 3074, or 6000-6100).
• Protocol: Whether the port uses TCP or UDP protocol.
• Internal IP Address: The local IP address of the device you want to forward the port to (e.g., your gaming PC or console).
• Internal Port: Usually the same as the external port, but sometimes it can be different (check the specific game/platform instructions).

After entering all the required information, save the configuration. You may need to restart your router for the changes to take effect. Make sure your gaming device is using a static IP address so that the port forwarding rules consistently point to the right device. Otherwise, the IP address can change, invalidating the rules.

Example Port Forwarding Configurations for Popular Games

While specific port requirements vary, here are some general examples. Always consult the official documentation for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

• Call of Duty: TCP: 3074, 27014-27050; UDP: 3074, 3478, 4379-4380, 27000-27030
• Fortnite: TCP: 443, 80; UDP: 7700-7799, 65000-65535
• PlayStation Network (PSN): TCP: 80, 443, 3478-3480; UDP: 3478-3479
• Xbox Live (Xbox Network): TCP: 80, 443, 3074; UDP: 88, 500, 3074, 3544, 4500
• Nintendo Switch Online: TCP: 6667, 12400, 28910, 29900, 29901, 29920; UDP: 1-65535

Remember to replace the example IP addresses with the actual IP address of your gaming device.

UPnP (Universal Plug and Play): The Automatic Approach

UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) offers a more automated approach to port forwarding. Instead of manually configuring each port, UPnP allows devices on your network to automatically request and open ports as needed.

This simplifies the process and eliminates the need for technical expertise. However, it also comes with potential security risks.

Enabling UPnP

Enabling UPnP is usually a simple process. Access your router’s configuration page, find the UPnP settings (often located in the NAT or security section), and enable the feature. Save the changes and restart your router.

Once UPnP is enabled, your gaming console or PC game can automatically request the necessary ports, potentially improving your NAT type without manual configuration. Many modern routers have UPnP enabled by default.

Security Risks of UPnP

While convenient, UPnP has known security vulnerabilities. It allows any device on your network to open ports without explicit user consent. This can create a security risk if a malicious program on your network exploits UPnP to open ports and expose your network to external threats.

Best Practices for UPnP

To mitigate these risks, it’s recommended to disable UPnP when you’re not actively gaming. Enable it only when needed for a gaming session, and then disable it immediately afterward. Keep your router’s firmware updated, as newer firmware versions often include security patches for UPnP vulnerabilities. Consider UPnP a temporary convenience rather than a permanent solution.

DMZ (Demilitarized Zone): The Last Resort

A DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) is the most extreme approach to improving your NAT type. It places a single device outside the protection of your router’s firewall, exposing it directly to the internet.

This essentially gives the device unrestricted access to all ports, eliminating NAT-related connectivity issues. However, it also exposes the device to significant security risks.

When to Use DMZ

DMZ should only be used as a last resort when port forwarding and UPnP have failed to resolve NAT issues. It’s generally not recommended for PCs, as they are more vulnerable to malware and attacks. If you must use a DMZ, consider using it only for a console (like a PlayStation, Xbox or Nintendo Switch).

Configuring DMZ Settings

To configure a DMZ, access your router’s configuration page and find the DMZ settings (usually located in the NAT or security section). Enter the local IP address of the device you want to place in the DMZ.

Save the changes and restart your router. It’s crucial to assign a static IP address to the device placed in the DMZ to ensure that the DMZ configuration remains valid.

Security Implications and Recommendations

Placing a device in a DMZ completely bypasses your router’s firewall, making it directly accessible from the internet. This exposes the device to all kinds of attacks and vulnerabilities.

Only use DMZ if absolutely necessary and understand the significant security risks involved. Ensure that the device placed in the DMZ has its own firewall enabled and is running up-to-date security software. Regularly monitor the device for any signs of compromise. If possible, consider upgrading your router to one with better NAT handling capabilities before resorting to a DMZ.

In the final analysis, improving your NAT type involves a careful balance between connectivity and security. Understanding the nuances of port forwarding, UPnP, and DMZ empowers you to make informed decisions and optimize your gaming experience while minimizing potential risks.

Troubleshooting NAT Gremlins: Diagnosing and Solving Gaming Issues

Even after meticulously configuring your NAT settings, persistent connectivity problems can still plague your gaming sessions. Identifying and addressing these "NAT gremlins" requires a methodical approach, combining diagnostic tools and a solid understanding of potential culprits. This section will arm you with the troubleshooting techniques necessary to conquer these challenges and reclaim your gaming experience.

Verifying Port Status with Online Port Checkers

One of the first steps in troubleshooting NAT-related issues is confirming whether the ports you forwarded have actually been opened correctly. Online port checkers provide a simple and convenient way to verify this.

These tools probe your external IP address for specific ports and report whether they are open or closed. It’s important to note that these tools can only check from the outside; they verify external accessibility, not internal configuration.

A closed port when it should be open indicates a problem with your port forwarding configuration, firewall settings, or potentially even your ISP.

Several reliable online port checkers are available. Common choices include:

• YouGetSignal Port Checker: A widely used and straightforward option.
• PortCheckers.com: Offers a clean interface and quick results.
• GRC’s ShieldsUP!!: Provides comprehensive security testing, including port scanning.

Remember to test the ports while the game or application using those ports is actively running. Some ports are only open when the application is actively listening for connections.

Diagnosing Network Issues Affecting Gameplay

Beyond port configuration, general network health plays a crucial role in online gaming performance. Latency, ping, jitter, and packet loss are key metrics to monitor. Understanding these terms and how to measure them is essential for effective troubleshooting.

Understanding Key Network Metrics

• Latency, often referred to as ping, measures the round-trip time for data to travel from your computer to a server and back. High latency results in noticeable lag.

• Ping is simply the numerical value of latency, usually measured in milliseconds (ms).

• Jitter refers to the variation in latency over time. Inconsistent ping can lead to erratic gameplay and rubberbanding.

• Packet loss occurs when data packets fail to reach their destination. This can manifest as dropped connections, stuttering, or missing data.

Using the Ping Command for Connectivity Testing

The ping command is a fundamental tool for diagnosing basic connectivity problems. You can use it to test the reachability of a game server or any other internet host.

To use the ping command:

1. Open the Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (macOS/Linux).
2. Type ping followed by the IP address or domain name of the server you want to test (e.g., ping google.com or ping 8.8.8.8).
3. Press Enter.

The output will display the latency (ping) for each packet sent. High latency or packet loss indicates a potential network issue.

Interpreting Ping Results

• Low Ping (under 50ms): Generally considered excellent for online gaming.
• Moderate Ping (50-150ms): Usually playable, but some lag may be noticeable.
• High Ping (over 150ms): Likely to cause significant lag and negatively impact gameplay.

Investigating Firewall Interference

Firewalls, both hardware (within your router) and software (on your computer), are designed to protect your network from unauthorized access. However, they can sometimes inadvertently block legitimate game traffic, leading to connectivity problems.

Checking Firewall Settings

Examine your firewall settings to ensure that your game or gaming platform is not being blocked. This often involves creating exceptions or rules to allow traffic on the necessary ports.

• Windows Firewall: Search for "Windows Defender Firewall" in the Start Menu. Click "Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall" and ensure your game is checked. If not, click "Change settings" and then "Allow another app…" to add it.

• Third-Party Firewalls: The process varies depending on the firewall software you’re using. Consult the software’s documentation for instructions on adding exceptions.

Adding Game Exceptions

When adding exceptions, specify the game’s executable file (.exe) and allow both TCP and UDP traffic. If you know the specific ports the game uses, you can create more granular rules to allow traffic only on those ports.

Leveraging Community Resources for Game-Specific Solutions

Gaming communities are invaluable resources for troubleshooting game-specific issues. Forums, subreddits, and Discord servers are filled with players who have likely encountered and solved similar problems.

Finding Solutions in Gaming Communities

Search for your game’s name in combination with keywords like "NAT," "connectivity," or "port forwarding." You’ll often find detailed guides, troubleshooting tips, and shared configurations.

Here are some popular gaming communities to explore:

• Reddit: Subreddits like r/gaming, r/pcmasterrace, and dedicated subreddits for specific games.
• Steam Forums: The Steam community forums for each game often contain troubleshooting threads.
• Official Game Forums: Many games have official forums hosted by the developers or publishers.

Escalating to Technical Support

When all other troubleshooting steps have failed, it may be necessary to contact technical support for assistance. This could involve contacting your router manufacturer or your ISP.

Knowing When to Contact Support

If you’ve exhausted all other troubleshooting options and are still experiencing persistent NAT-related issues, it’s time to reach out for professional help. Common scenarios include:

• Inability to access your router’s configuration page.
• Persistent connectivity problems even after correct port forwarding.
• Suspected issues with your ISP’s network configuration.

Communicating Effectively with Support Staff

When contacting support, be prepared to provide detailed information about your network setup, including:

• Your router’s model number and firmware version.
• Your operating system and game or platform you’re using.
• A clear description of the problem you’re experiencing.
• The troubleshooting steps you’ve already taken.

The more information you provide, the better equipped the support staff will be to diagnose and resolve your issue.

Beyond NAT: Supercharging Your Network for Gaming Supremacy

While configuring NAT settings is a crucial step, it’s only one piece of the puzzle. Achieving consistently smooth and responsive online gaming requires a holistic approach to network optimization. This involves addressing factors beyond NAT, focusing on the stability, speed, and overall health of your home network. Let’s explore several strategies to unlock your network’s full potential and elevate your gaming experience.

Securing a Rock-Solid Internet Foundation

At the heart of any online gaming experience lies the internet connection itself. A stable and sufficiently fast connection from your ISP is paramount. No amount of NAT tweaking can compensate for underlying bandwidth limitations or frequent disconnects.

Evaluate your current internet plan. Does it meet the minimum and recommended bandwidth requirements of the games you play? Consider the number of devices simultaneously using the internet in your household.

If you consistently experience lag, disconnects, or slow download speeds, it may be time to contact your ISP. Inquire about upgrading to a higher-bandwidth plan. Ask about the stability of their service in your area. A more robust internet connection is the foundation upon which all other optimizations are built.

Master the Art of Home Network Optimization

Your home network acts as the conduit between your gaming device and the internet. Optimizing this internal network is vital for minimizing latency and maximizing stability.

Wired vs. Wireless: The Ultimate Showdown

Whenever possible, opt for a wired Ethernet connection over Wi-Fi. Wired connections offer significantly lower latency, more consistent speeds, and are far less susceptible to interference.

While Wi-Fi has improved considerably, it still introduces a layer of variability that can negatively impact gaming. Ethernet cables provide a dedicated, direct connection to your router. This results in a more stable and responsive gaming experience.

Router Placement: Location, Location, Location

The location of your router significantly impacts Wi-Fi signal strength and coverage. Place your router in a central, open location, away from obstructions like walls, metal objects, and electronic devices that can cause interference.

Elevate your router to improve signal distribution. Experiment with different placements to find the optimal spot for strong, consistent Wi-Fi coverage throughout your gaming area.

Taming the Interference Beast

Many household devices emit electromagnetic interference that can disrupt Wi-Fi signals. Common culprits include microwave ovens, cordless phones, Bluetooth devices, and even neighboring Wi-Fi networks.

Keep your router away from these potential sources of interference. If possible, switch to the 5 GHz Wi-Fi band. The 5 GHz band experiences less congestion than the 2.4 GHz band, leading to improved performance in environments with high interference.

Regular Speed Testing: Monitoring Your Network’s Vital Signs

Regularly monitor your internet speed using online speed test websites. This allows you to track your connection’s performance over time and identify potential bottlenecks.

Run speed tests at different times of the day, especially during peak usage hours. This will reveal if your ISP is experiencing congestion issues that are impacting your gaming experience. Note down the latency and jitter alongside the upload and download speeds.

Document your results to establish a baseline. Compare current speeds to this baseline to quickly identify any significant performance degradation that may require troubleshooting or contacting your ISP.

Firmware Updates: Keeping Your Router Sharp

Keeping your router’s firmware up to date is essential for optimal performance, security, and bug fixes. Router manufacturers regularly release firmware updates that address security vulnerabilities, improve performance, and add new features.

Access your router’s configuration page (typically through a web browser) and look for the firmware update section. The process for updating firmware varies depending on the router model. Consult your router’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for specific instructions.

Enable automatic firmware updates whenever possible to ensure your router is always running the latest and most secure version. However, be aware that automatic updates can sometimes cause temporary disruptions. Alternatively, schedule manual updates during off-peak hours.

So, there you have it! Hopefully, this clears up some of the mystery around what ports gaming NAT uses and how to get that sweet, sweet Open NAT status. Happy gaming, and may your ping always be low!