Router Port Forwarding

Port forwarding is a crucial step in setting up a Anyone Relay, allowing external connections to reach your relay's designated port (default: 9001). This universal guide covers the port forwarding process applicable to most routers. It's important to note that while the default port is 9001, you can optionally choose another port.

1. Access Your Router's Settings

Here's a short example on how to find the router IP from the command prompt in Windows using ipconfig.

Open Command Prompt

Press Win + R, type cmd, and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.

Run ipconfig

Type ipconfig and press Enter. Look for the "Default Gateway" entry under the active network connection.

Identify Router IP

The number next to "Default Gateway" is your router's IP address. It typically looks like 192.168.x.x or 10.x.x.x.

For example, if you see:

Default Gateway . . . . . . . . . : 192.168.1.1

Open Your Web Browser

Use any web browser to access your router's settings. Common router login addresses include 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1.

Login to the Router

Enter your router's username and password. If you haven't changed these, check your router documentation or on the back label, for default credentials.

2. Locate the Port Forwarding Section in your Routers Control Panel

Look for a section named "Port Forwarding" in your router settings. The location may vary but is often found under the "Advanced" or "Security" tab.

Choose a Device

Select the device running your Anyone Relay from the list of connected devices.

3. Configure Port Forwarding

a. Add a New Rule Create a new port forwarding rule. b. Specify Port Enter the port number Default is normally 9001 otherwise specify your chosen port in the required fields. c. Select Protocol Choose "TCP/UDP" as the protocol. d. Set IP Address Enter the local IP address of your Anyone Relay device. You can find this in your device's network settings. e. Leave source IP empty Do not enter anything in the field for source IP to ensure anyone on the network can connect to your relay on the specified port.

Save your settings, and if required, reboot your network router or firewall.

4. Verify Port Forwarding

Use Online Tools

Utilize online tools like "CanYouSeeMe.org" to check if your specified port is open.

Make sure your Anyone Relay is configured to use the forwarded port. Update the anonrc file with the chosen port accordingly.

ORPort <YourChosenPort>

5. Security Considerations

Use Strong Passwords

Make sure your router login credentials and Anyone Relay are secured with strong, unique passwords.

Regularly Monitor Activity

Periodically check router logs for any unauthorized access and monitor your relay's performance.


External Resources

For router-specific instructions or troubleshooting, refer to your router's manual or visit the manufacturer's website. Below are links to guides for some popular router brands:

Remember that the steps may vary slightly based on different router models. Always prioritize security and consult your router's documentation for model-specific details.

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