eero Router Port Forwarding Broken: How to Fix It

Q: What is CGNAT and why does it break port forwarding?

CGNAT (Carrier Grade Network Address Translation) is when your ISP puts multiple customers behind a shared public IP address. This prevents incoming internet connections from reaching your specific router, breaking port forwarding, gaming, and remote access services.

Q: Can I fix eero port forwarding without calling my ISP?

No, if you're behind CGNAT, only your ISP can fix this by assigning you a public IP address. There are no router settings or workarounds that can solve CGNAT from your end.

Q: How much does a public IP address cost?

Many ISPs offer public IP addresses for free upon request. Others charge $5-20 per month. Business internet plans typically include public IPs automatically. Call your ISP to ask about their specific pricing.

Q: Will getting a public IP affect my internet speed?

No, getting a public IP address will not slow down your internet speed. In some cases, it may actually improve performance by reducing the extra network translation steps required by CGNAT.

Q: What if my ISP won't give me a public IP address?

If your ISP refuses to provide a public IP, you have limited options: use a VPN service that supports port forwarding, switch to a different ISP, upgrade to a business plan, or use alternative solutions like remote access software that doesn't require port forwarding.

Abstract

When eero detects that port forwarding is broken, it usually means your ISP is using CGNAT (Carrier Grade Network Address Translation), which prevents incoming connections from reaching your devices. This blocks gaming servers, remote access, and other services that need direct internet connections.