How To Open Ports in Your Windows Defender Firewall for Fortnite

How to Open Ports in Windows Defender Firewall for Fortnite. Are you experiencing lag, disconnections, or matchmaking issues in Fortnite? Opening the right ports in your Windows Defender Firewall could be the solution! Fortnite, created by Epic Games, relies on specific TCP and UDP ports for smooth online gameplay. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of configuring your firewall to optimize your gaming experience.

Step 1: Open Windows Defender Firewall

Let’s start by accessing your firewall settings:

• Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
• Type control and press Enter to launch the Control Panel.
• Click on “System and Security”, then select “Windows Defender Firewall”.

Step 2: Access Advanced Settings

Once you’re in the firewall window:

• In the left sidebar, click “Advanced settings”.
• This opens the Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security interface.

Step 3: Create a New Inbound Rule

Now, let’s set up a rule for inbound traffic:

• In the left panel, click “Inbound Rules”.
• In the right panel, select “New Rule”.

Step 4: Select Port

In the rule creation wizard:

• Choose “Port” as the rule type and click “Next”.

Step 5: Specify Ports

Fortnite uses both TCP and UDP ports. Here’s what to enter:

• Select TCP and input these ports: 1935, 3478-3480, 5222, 5795-5847.
• Click “Next”.
• Repeat the process for UDP with these ports: 3478, 3479, 49152-65535.
• Click “Next” again.

Note: These ports handle matchmaking, voice chat, and gameplay services.

Step 6: Allow the Connection

Configure the rule to permit traffic:

• Choose “Allow the connection” and click “Next”.

Step 7: Choose Network Profiles

Decide when the rule applies:

• Select Domain, Private, or Public (or all three for flexibility).
• Click “Next”.

For most home users, selecting all profiles ensures the rule works on any network.

Step 8: Name Your Rule

Give your rule a clear identity:

• Enter a name like “Fortnite Inbound Ports”.
• Optionally, add a description such as “Ports for Fortnite connectivity”.
• Click “Finish”.

Step 9: Repeat for Outbound Rules

Fortnite needs two-way communication, so:

• Go to “Outbound Rules” in the Advanced Security window.
• Repeat the steps above using the same TCP and UDP port numbers.

Step 10: Test Your Connection

Time to see if it worked:

• Launch Fortnite and test online features like joining a match or using voice chat.
• If issues persist, double-check your port numbers or router settings (you might need to set up port forwarding).

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Experience

Still having trouble? Try these:

• Ensure your antivirus isn’t blocking Fortnite.
• Verify your internet connection is stable.
• Restart your PC after applying the rules to refresh settings.

By opening these ports, you’re setting up your system for Fortnite’s multiplayer demands, paving the way for uninterrupted gaming sessions.

Conclusion

Configuring your Windows Defender Firewall for Fortnite is a straightforward process that can significantly improve your online gameplay. Follow these steps, test your setup, and drop into the battle bus with confidence! Have questions or run into issues? Leave a comment below, and we　we’ll help you out!

Tags: #Fortnite, #WindowsDefender, #FirewallSettings, #OpenPorts, #GamingTips, #NetworkFix, #UDPPorts, #TCPPorts, #TechHelp, #FortniteMultiplayer