Port forwarding and security concern

[Bill in SD, CA]

My 12 year old was trying to set up a game server for Star Wars Jedi Knight. He wasn't able to do it and I told him it was because we're behind a firewall. LynkSys router.

I told him I read something about how to get around it. Well, he did by using port forwarding.

I don't know much about it and I am wondering if my network is vulnerable because of this. He says that as soon as the game is over the port forwarding stops.

Thanks,

Bill

even if the game server is stopped the port forwarding will still be enabled. unless you go into the options in the router and there should be a enable button you can click to turn it on and off so you don't have to keep typing it in when you want to use it

as for it being vulnerable i believe if you have patched the box up you will be pretty safe. Do you have the latest firmware installed? Now if you put the machine into the DMZ zone to get the game to work that is where you should worry.

[Christian-Comp]

I want to know more about this "port forwarding." For months I've tried to set up a server but have failed unless it was ONLY for this computer.

Christian-Comp how do you have your network setup?

router also?

[Bill in SD, CA]

I did a firmware update a few months ago. In the meantime, I had to do a re-install of 2K. Do I have to do the firmware update again?

Bill

no the firmware is in the router.

[DVNT1]

Anytime you allow unrequested data to come in your network (like forwarding a port via your router) you are adding additional risk of being hacked.

When forwarding gaming only related ports the risk should be worth the gain for most home users. I would still close the hole whenever I wasn't actively running the game server.