🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 162 (from laksa148)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa162.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding","crawl_time":1776827988,"first_indexed_time":1649082614,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,protonvpn!\/support\/port-forwarding s443","src_root_hash":"12885006805053501762","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Port forwarding | Proton VPN","meta_descriptions":["Port forwarding setup guide for ProtonVPN, plus how to configure popular torrent clients for port forwarding"],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Port forwarding routes connections through the firewall that Proton VPN uses to protect our customers. It’s a feature that is mainly useful to people who download and share files using P2P protocols such as BitTorrent, although it can also improve performance for online gamers.\nLearn more about how port forwarding works\nPort forwarding is currently available in our Windows, Mac, and Linux apps for everyone with a paid Proton VPN plan. If you have a free plan, you can upgrade to access it.\nYou can also manually configure port forwarding.\nLearn how to manually set up port forwarding\nNote that port forwarding is only permitted on our special P2P servers. These are marked with a\ndouble-arrow icon\n. Note also that you can’t use port forwarding and\nmoderate (Type 2) NAT\nat the same time.\nIn this support article, we’ll look at:\nHow to enable port forwarding on the Windows app\nHow to enable port forwarding on the macOS app\nHow to enable port forwarding using the Linux (GUI) app\nHow to enable port forwarding using the Linux CLI\nHow to configure port forwarding on qBittorrent\nHow to configure port forwarding on Vuze\nHow to configure port forwarding on uTorrent (Classic)\nHow to enable port forwarding\nWindows\nPort forwarding is only permitted on our special P2P servers. To find these, go to\nHome\n→\nCountries\n→\nP2P\ntab.\n1. Select the\nPort forwarding\nshortcut on the home screen (you can also access the port forwarding settings via the\n⚙\nSettings\nmenu).\n2. Toggle the\nPort forwarding\nswitch\non\n. By default, you’ll now get notified when the active port number changes, but, if you prefer, you can turn this off.\n3. When you activate port forwarding, the VPN app sends a request to the VPN server to open a random port. This will forward traffic from the internet to the app. To see the\nactive port number\n, hover your mouse cursor over the\nPort forwarding\nshortcut on the\nHome\nscreen.\nYou’ll also receive a Windows notification displaying the port number when port forwarding is first turned on, and when the\nactive port number\nchanges.\nYou’ll need this number to configure port forwarding on third-party software such as your BitTorrent client. Please note that when you disconnect and reconnect the VPN, the\nactive port number\nwill usually change.  \nThis means you may need to update the port forwarding settings on your BitTorrent client for each VPN session, but doing so is very quick and easy (see\nbelow\n), and the active port is available to use immediately. \nmacOS\nCurrently, port forwarding on macOS is an\nearly-access feature\n.\nPort forwarding is only permitted on our special\nP2P\nservers. On our Mac app, these are marked with a\ndouble-arrow icon\n.\n1. Select the\nPort forwarding\nshortcut on the home screen.\n2. Select the\nPort forwarding\nOn\nbutton. When you activate port forwarding, the VPN app sends a request to the VPN server to open a random port. This will forward traffic from the internet to the app. The\nactive port number\nis shown underneath the\nPort forwarding On\nbutton.\nYou’ll need this number to configure port forwarding on third-party software like your torrenting client. Please note that, in most cases, the\nactive port number\nwill change when you disconnect and reconnect the VPN. \nThis means you will probably need to reconfigure your P2P client for each VPN session. However, doing this is very quick and easy (see\nbelow\n), and the active port is available to use immediately. \nLinux (GUI) app\nPort forwarding is only permitted on our special\nP2P\nservers. On our Linux app, these are marked with a\ndouble-arrow icon\n.\n1. Open the app, go to\nSettings\n→\nFeatures\n, and toggle the\nPort forwarding\nswitch\non\n.\n2. When port forwarding is activated, the VPN app sends a request to the VPN server to open a random port that will forward traffic from the internet to the app. The\nactive port number\nused for this is shown in the information panel at the top of the main app window when you connect to one of our P2P VPN servers.\nYou’ll need this number to configure port forwarding on third-party software like your torrenting client. Please note that, in most cases, the\nactive port number\nwill change when you disconnect and reconnect the VPN. \nThis means you will probably need to reconfigure your P2P client for each VPN session. However, doing this is very quick and easy (see below), and the active port is available to use immediately. \nThe active port is also written to the file:\n\/run\/user\/$UID\/Proton\/VPN\/forwarded_port\n. This can be useful for triggering automating tasks like updating your torrent client configuration every time the port number changes.\nLinux CLI\nEnabling port forwarding for the Linux CLI is a two-stage process:\n1.\nEnable port forwarding in the CLI\nOpen a terminal window and run:\nprotonvpn config set port-forwarding on\nCopied\nIf you’re connected to the VPN, you’ll need to reconnect for the new setting to take effect.\n2.\nConfigure port forwarding\nFollow the instructions in our\nHow to manually set up port forwarding\nguide. Start from\nStep 2: Linux\n.\nHow to configure port forwarding in your BitTorrent client\nPort forwarding will work in any BitTorrent app. We provide instructions for a few popular Windows torrent apps below, but the steps are similar for all such software. Just remember to disable any UPnP and NAT-PMP settings in your client. \nThe reason for this is that UPnP and NAT-PMP settings can conflict with settings in the Proton VPN app.\nqBittorrent\n1. Enable port forwarding in the Proton VPN app (see above) and launch qBittorrent.\n2. Go to\nTools\n→\nOptions\n→\nConnection\nand disable\nUse UPnP \/ NAT-PMP port forwarding from my router\n(it is enabled by default)\n3. In the\nPort used for incoming connections\nfield, enter the\nactive port number\nshown in the Proton VPN app.\nClick\nOK\nwhen you’re done.\nTo prevent IP leaks while you’re torrenting, you should take additional steps to ensure that qBitTorrent is bound to the correct interface. You can do so by following our guide on\nhow to bind your BitTorrent client to the VPN interface\n.\nVuze\nThe screenshots below show Vuze in\nBeginner\nMode\n(new window)\n, but the steps are identical for all modes. \n1. Enable port forwarding in the Proton VPN app (see above) and launch Vuze.\n2. Go to\nTools\n→\nOptions\n→\nPlugins\n→\nUPnP\nand uncheck (disable)\nEnable UPnP\n.\n3. While still on the Options page, go to\nConnection\nand enter the\nactive port number\nshown in the Proton VPN app.\nClick\nSave\nwhen you’re done.\nuTorrent (Classic)\n1. Enable port forwarding in the Proton VPN app (see above) and launch uTorrent.\n2. Go to\nOptions\n→\nPreferences\n→\nConnection\nand\nuncheck (\ndisable) both\nEnable UPnP port mapping\nand\nEnable NAT-PMP port mapping\n.\n3. In the\nPort used for incoming connections\nfield, enter the\nactive port number\nshown in the Proton VPN app.\nClick\nApply\nwhen you’re done.\nOpening a port carries a small risk. See\nPort forwarding security considerations\nfor more details.\nA word about online port checkers\nOnline port checker tools allow you to check for open ports on your device and verify that port forwarding is working correctly. However,\nopen ports can only be detected if an application is actively listening on that port\n.\nHow port checker tools work\nPort checker tools work in the following way:\n1.\nConnection Attempt\n: The tool sends a request to establish a connection to the specified port on your public I\nP address\n. When using a VPN, this will be the IP address of the\nVPN server\n.\n2.\nResponse Analysis\n: It will then wait for a response:\nOpen\n: If an application is actively listening on that port and port forwarding is working correctly, the port checker will successfully establish a connection and mark the port as\nopen\n.\nClosed\nor\nFiltered\n: If no application is listening on the port, or if our firewall is blocking the connection (for example, if port forwarding is not working correctly), the port checker will either receive a “connection refused” message or the connection will time out. In these cases, the port will be reported as\nclosed\nor\nfiltered\n.\nExample\nUsing the Proton VPN port forwarding feature, you have opened port 44375 in our NAT firewall. However, until you configure an app to listen on that port, an online port checker tool will return a\nclosed\nor\nfiltered\nresult.\nIf you configure an app to listen on port 44375 (such as one of the torrent clients described above) and check again, the port checker tool will be able to connect to the app through our firewall and return an\nopen\nresult.","attrs_markdown":"[![Proton VPN homepage](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fv1774890277%2Fstatic%2Flogos%2Ficons%2Fvpn_f9embt.svg) ![Proton](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fstatic%2Flogos%2Ftexts%2Fproton-black_zvq72v.svg)![VPN](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fstatic%2Flogos%2Ftexts%2Fvpn-purple_afexu9.svg)](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/)\n\n- Why Proton VPN\n  \n  [What is a VPN?Find out what a VPN is, how it works, and when to use one.](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/what-is-a-vpn)\n  \n  [Why Proton VPN?No logs, no ads, open-source and independently audited.](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/why-proton-vpn)\n  \n  [All featuresLearn how our advanced security and privacy features allow you to browse the web with peace of mind.](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/features)\n  \n  [VPN serversServers in 120+ countries for truly global connectivity.](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/vpn-servers)\n  ***\n  [VPN for StreamingWatch what you want, when you want, from wherever you want with Proton VPN.](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/streaming)\n  ***\n  Countries\n  \n  [United States](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/vpn-servers\/usa)\n  \n  [United Kingdom](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/vpn-servers\/uk)\n  \n  [France](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/vpn-servers\/france)\n  \n  [All countries](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/vpn-servers)\n  \n  Services\n  \n  [Netflix](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/streaming\/netflix)\n  \n  [Amazon Prime Video](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/watch-amazon-prime-with-vpn)\n  \n  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[Business VPN(new window)](https:\/\/proton.me\/business\/vpn?ref=pvpn_support_b2c_vpn_menu)\n\nDiscover Proton\n\nProton ecosystem\n\n[![Proton Mail](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fv1774890277%2Fstatic%2Flogos%2Ficons%2Fmail_xxy4bg.svg) Proton MailSecure your communications with encrypted email.(new window)](https:\/\/proton.me\/mail?ref=pvpn_support_b2c_vpn_submenu)\n\n[![Proton Calendar](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fv1774890277%2Fstatic%2Flogos%2Ficons%2Fcalendar_ylg2jq.svg) Proton CalendarOrganize your schedule privately.(new window)](https:\/\/proton.me\/calendar?ref=pvpn_support_b2c_vpn_submenu)\n\n[![Proton Meet](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fv1774890277%2Fstatic%2Flogos%2Ficons%2Fmeet.svg) Proton Meet NewTalk in private with confidential video conferencing.(new 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window)](https:\/\/standardnotes.com\/)\n***\n[![](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fv1774890277%2Fstatic%2Flogos%2Ficons%2Fp-white-no-shadow_iwycfj.svg) Proton for BusinessProtect your business with end-to-end encryption and compliance-ready security.(new window)](https:\/\/proton.me\/business?ref=pvpn_support_b2c_vpn_submenu)\n***\n[ProtonA better internet starts with privacy and freedom.(new window)](https:\/\/proton.me\/?ref=pvpn_support_b2c_vpn_submenu)\n\n[About us(new window)](https:\/\/proton.me\/about?ref=pvpn_support_b2c_vpn_submenu)\n\n[Impact(new window)](https:\/\/proton.me\/about\/impact?ref=pvpn_support_b2c_vpn_submenu)\n\n[Community(new window)](https:\/\/proton.me\/community?ref=pvpn_support_b2c_vpn_submenu)\n\n[Open source(new window)](https:\/\/proton.me\/community\/open-source?ref=pvpn_support_b2c_vpn_submenu)\n\n[Team(new window)](https:\/\/proton.me\/about\/team?ref=pvpn_support_b2c_vpn_submenu)\n\n[Careers We’re hiring(new window)](https:\/\/proton.me\/careers?ref=pvpn_support_b2c_vpn_submenu)\n\n[Proton Foundation(new window)](https:\/\/proton.me\/foundation?ref=pvpn_support_b2c_vpn_submenu)\n\n[Get Proton VPN](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/pricing)\n\n[Sign in](https:\/\/account.protonvpn.com\/login)\n\nOpen menu\n\n1. [Support](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support)\n2. [Proton VPN Features](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/protonvpn-features)\n3. [Port forwarding](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/protonvpn-features\/port-forwarding)\n\nSupport search\n\n# Port forwarding\nReading\n\n10 mins\n\nCategory\n\nPort forwarding\n\nPort forwarding routes connections through the firewall that Proton VPN uses to protect our customers. It’s a feature that is mainly useful to people who download and share files using P2P protocols such as BitTorrent, although it can also improve performance for online gamers.\n\n[**Learn more about how port forwarding works**](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/blog\/port-forwarding\/)\n\nPort forwarding is currently available in our Windows, Mac, and Linux apps for everyone with a paid Proton VPN plan. If you have a free plan, you can upgrade to access it.\n\n[Get Proton VPN Plus](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/pricing\/)\n\nYou can also manually configure port forwarding.\n\n[**Learn how to manually set up port forwarding**](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding-manual-setup)\n\nNote that port forwarding is only permitted on our special P2P servers. These are marked with a **double-arrow icon**. Note also that you can’t use port forwarding and [moderate (Type 2) NAT](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/moderate-nat) at the same time.\n\nIn this support article, we’ll look at:\n\n- [How to enable port forwarding on the Windows app](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding#windows)\n- [How to enable port forwarding on the macOS app](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding#mac)\n- [How to enable port forwarding using the Linux (GUI) app](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding#linux)\n- [How to enable port forwarding using the Linux CLI](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding#linux)\n- [How to configure port forwarding on qBittorrent](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding#qbittorrent)\n- [How to configure port forwarding on Vuze](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding#vuze)\n- [How to configure port forwarding on uTorrent (Classic)](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding#utorrent)\n## How to enable port forwarding\n### Windows\nPort forwarding is only permitted on our special P2P servers. To find these, go to **Home** → **Countries** → **P2P** tab.\n\n![How to port forward on Windows 1](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_1024,h_568,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1743756750\/wp-vpn\/image-4_11361a7a04\/image-4_11361a7a04.png?_i=AA)\n\n1\\. Select the **Port forwarding** shortcut on the home screen (you can also access the port forwarding settings via the **⚙** **Settings** menu).\n\n![How to port forward on Windows 2](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_1024,h_568,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1743756760\/wp-vpn\/image-5_11363adf4d\/image-5_11363adf4d.png?_i=AA)\n\n2\\. Toggle the **Port forwarding** switch **on**. By default, you’ll now get notified when the active port number changes, but, if you prefer, you can turn this off.\n\n![How to port forward on Windows 3](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_541,h_264,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1743756738\/wp-vpn\/image-7_1136633bd9\/image-7_1136633bd9.png?_i=AA)\n\n3\\. When you activate port forwarding, the VPN app sends a request to the VPN server to open a random port. This will forward traffic from the internet to the app. To see the **active port number**, hover your mouse cursor over the **Port forwarding** shortcut on the **Home** screen.\n\n![How to port forward on Windows 4](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_1024,h_576,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1743756775\/wp-vpn\/image-6_11365341d4\/image-6_11365341d4.png?_i=AA)\n\nYou’ll also receive a Windows notification displaying the port number when port forwarding is first turned on, and when the **active port number** changes.\n\n![How to port forward on Windows 5](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_375,h_250,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1743756744\/wp-vpn\/image-3_1136269ac7\/image-3_1136269ac7.png?_i=AA)\n\nYou’ll need this number to configure port forwarding on third-party software such as your BitTorrent client. Please note that when you disconnect and reconnect the VPN, the **active port number** will usually change.\n\nThis means you may need to update the port forwarding settings on your BitTorrent client for each VPN session, but doing so is very quick and easy (see [below](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding#bittorrent)), and the active port is available to use immediately.\n\n### macOS\nCurrently, port forwarding on macOS is an [early-access feature](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/enable-early-access-windows-mac\/).\n\nPort forwarding is only permitted on our special **P2P** servers. On our Mac app, these are marked with a **double-arrow icon**.\n\n![Mac app showing dozens of P2P servers based in Phoenix, Arizona.](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_1024,h_682,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755542165\/wp-vpn\/p2p-servers-1\/p2p-servers-1.png?_i=AA)\n\n1\\. Select the **Port forwarding** shortcut on the home screen.\n\n![The Mac app highlighting the port forwarding button on the home screen.](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_1024,h_695,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755542150\/wp-vpn\/port-forwarding-main-menu\/port-forwarding-main-menu.png?_i=AA)\n\n2\\. Select the **Port forwarding** **On** button. When you activate port forwarding, the VPN app sends a request to the VPN server to open a random port. This will forward traffic from the internet to the app. The **active port number** is shown underneath the **Port forwarding On** button.\n\n![](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_1024,h_715,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755542135\/wp-vpn\/port-forwarding-on\/port-forwarding-on.png?_i=AA)\n\nYou’ll need this number to configure port forwarding on third-party software like your torrenting client. Please note that, in most cases, the **active port number** will change when you disconnect and reconnect the VPN.\n\nThis means you will probably need to reconfigure your P2P client for each VPN session. However, doing this is very quick and easy (see [below](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding#bittorrent)), and the active port is available to use immediately.\n\n### Linux (GUI) app\nPort forwarding is only permitted on our special **P2P** servers. On our Linux app, these are marked with a **double-arrow icon**.\n\n![P2P servers are clearly labeled in the Linux app](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_316,h_504,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1739870945\/wp-vpn\/image-1_110090eae6\/image-1_110090eae6.png?_i=AA)\n\n1\\. Open the app, go to **Settings** → **Features**, and toggle the **Port forwarding** switch **on**.\n\n![Port forwading on our Linux app.](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_532,h_473,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1721663158\/wp-vpn\/port-forwading-linux-1\/port-forwading-linux-1.png?_i=AA)\n\n2\\. When port forwarding is activated, the VPN app sends a request to the VPN server to open a random port that will forward traffic from the internet to the app. The **active port number** used for this is shown in the information panel at the top of the main app window when you connect to one of our P2P VPN servers.\n\nYou’ll need this number to configure port forwarding on third-party software like your torrenting client. Please note that, in most cases, the **active port number** will change when you disconnect and reconnect the VPN.\n\nThis means you will probably need to reconfigure your P2P client for each VPN session. However, doing this is very quick and easy (see below), and the active port is available to use immediately.\n\n![The active port number is shown on the main screen](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_416,h_600,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1739870938\/wp-vpn\/image-2_1101010f9e\/image-2_1101010f9e.png?_i=AA)\n\nThe active port is also written to the file: **\/run\/user\/\\$UID\/Proton\/VPN\/forwarded\\_port**. This can be useful for triggering automating tasks like updating your torrent client configuration every time the port number changes.\n\n### Linux CLI\nEnabling port forwarding for the Linux CLI is a two-stage process:\n\n1\\. **Enable port forwarding in the CLI**\n\nOpen a terminal window and run:\n\n```\nprotonvpn config set port-forwarding on\n```\nCopy\n\nCopied\n\nIf you’re connected to the VPN, you’ll need to reconnect for the new setting to take effect.\n\n2\\. **Configure port forwarding**\n\nFollow the instructions in our [How to manually set up port forwarding](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding-manual-setup#linux) guide. Start from **Step 2: Linux**.\n\n## How to configure port forwarding in your BitTorrent client\nPort forwarding will work in any BitTorrent app. We provide instructions for a few popular Windows torrent apps below, but the steps are similar for all such software. Just remember to disable any UPnP and NAT-PMP settings in your client.\n\nThe reason for this is that UPnP and NAT-PMP settings can conflict with settings in the Proton VPN app.\n\n### qBittorrent\n1\\. Enable port forwarding in the Proton VPN app (see above) and launch qBittorrent.\n\n2\\. Go to **Tools** → **Options** → **Connection** and disable **Use UPnP \/ NAT-PMP port forwarding from my router** (it is enabled by default)\n\n3\\. In the **Port used for incoming connections** field, enter the **active port number** shown in the Proton VPN app.\n\n![Eenable port forwarding in qBittorrent](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_696,h_322,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1721666964\/wp-vpn\/port-forwading-qbitorrent\/port-forwading-qbitorrent.png?_i=AA)\n\nClick **OK** when you’re done.\n\nTo prevent IP leaks while you’re torrenting, you should take additional steps to ensure that qBitTorrent is bound to the correct interface. You can do so by following our guide on [how to bind your BitTorrent client to the VPN interface](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/bittorrent-vpn#binding-your-bittorrent-client-to-the-vpn-interface).\n\n### Vuze\nThe screenshots below show Vuze in **Beginner** [Mode(new window)](https:\/\/wiki.vuze.com\/w\/Mode), but the steps are identical for all modes.\n\n1\\. Enable port forwarding in the Proton VPN app (see above) and launch Vuze.\n\n2\\. Go to **Tools** → **Options** → **Plugins** → **UPnP** and uncheck (disable) **Enable UPnP**.\n\n![Disable uPnP in Vuze](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_865,h_506,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1721666974\/wp-vpn\/port-forwarding-vuze-1\/port-forwarding-vuze-1.png?_i=AA)\n\n3\\. While still on the Options page, go to **Connection** and enter the **active port number** shown in the Proton VPN app.\n\n![Set listen port in Vuze](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_958,h_447,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1721666968\/wp-vpn\/port-forwarding-vuze-2\/port-forwarding-vuze-2.png?_i=AA)\n\nClick **Save** when you’re done.\n\n### uTorrent (Classic)\n1\\. Enable port forwarding in the Proton VPN app (see above) and launch uTorrent.\n\n2\\. Go to **Options** → **Preferences** → **Connection** and **uncheck (**disable) both **Enable UPnP port mapping** and **Enable NAT-PMP port mapping**.\n\n![Disable UPnP and NAT\\_PMP in uTorrent](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_660,h_489,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1721666960\/wp-vpn\/port-forwarding-utorrent-1\/port-forwarding-utorrent-1.png?_i=AA)\n\n3\\. In the **Port used for incoming connections** field, enter the **active port number** shown in the Proton VPN app.\n\n![Set listening port in uTorrent](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_660,h_489,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1721666954\/wp-vpn\/port-forwarding-utorrent-2\/port-forwarding-utorrent-2.png?_i=AA)\n\nClick **Apply** when you’re done.\n\nOpening a port carries a small risk. See [Port forwarding security considerations](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding-risks) for more details.\n\n## A word about online port checkers\nOnline port checker tools allow you to check for open ports on your device and verify that port forwarding is working correctly. However, **open ports can only be detected if an application is actively listening on that port**.\n\n### How port checker tools work\nPort checker tools work in the following way:\n\n1\\. **Connection Attempt**: The tool sends a request to establish a connection to the specified port on your public I[P address](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/blog\/what-is-an-ip-address\/). When using a VPN, this will be the IP address of the [VPN server](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/vpn-servers).\n\n2\\. **Response Analysis**: It will then wait for a response:\n\n- **Open**: If an application is actively listening on that port and port forwarding is working correctly, the port checker will successfully establish a connection and mark the port as **open**.\n- **Closed** or **Filtered**: If no application is listening on the port, or if our firewall is blocking the connection (for example, if port forwarding is not working correctly), the port checker will either receive a “connection refused” message or the connection will time out. In these cases, the port will be reported as **closed** or **filtered**.\n### Example\nUsing the Proton VPN port forwarding feature, you have opened port 44375 in our NAT firewall. However, until you configure an app to listen on that port, an online port checker tool will return a **closed** or **filtered** result.\n\nIf you configure an app to listen on port 44375 (such as one of the torrent clients described above) and check again, the port checker tool will be able to connect to the app through our firewall and return an **open** result.\n\nOn this page\n\n- [How to enable port forwarding](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding#how-to-enable-port-forwarding)\n- [How to configure port forwarding in your BitTorrent client](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding#bittorrent)\n- [A word about online port checkers](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding#port-checkers)\n\nPort forwarding\n\n- [How to manually set up port forwarding](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding-manual-setup)\n- [Port forwarding security considerations](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding-risks)\n\n## Didn’t find what you were looking for?\n[Get help](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/troubleshooter)\n\nGeneral contact[contact@proton.me](mailto:contact@proton.me)\n\nMedia contact[media@proton.me](mailto:media@proton.me)\n\nLegal contact[legal@proton.me](mailto:legal@proton.me)\n\nPartnerships contact[partners@proton.me](mailto:partners@proton.me)\n\n![Proton VPN](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fv1693233227%2Fstatic%2Flogos%2Fproton-vpn-trademark_xiobqc.svg)\n\n- [![X](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fv1727943149%2Fstatic%2Fsocial%2Fsquare%2Fx.svg)(new window)](https:\/\/x.com\/intent\/user?screen_name=ProtonVPN)\n- [![Reddit](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fv1727943149%2Fstatic%2Fsocial%2Fsquare%2Freddit.svg)(new window)](https:\/\/www.reddit.com\/r\/ProtonVPN\/)\n- [![Instagram](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fv1727943149%2Fstatic%2Fsocial%2Fsquare%2Finstagram.svg)(new window)](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/protonprivacy\/)\n- [![Facebook](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fv1727943149%2Fstatic%2Fsocial%2Fsquare%2Ffacebook.svg)(new window)](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Proton)\n- [![LinkedIn](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fv1727943149%2Fstatic%2Fsocial%2Fsquare%2Flinkedin.svg)(new window)](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/protonprivacy\/)\n- [![RSS](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fv1727943149%2Fstatic%2Fsocial%2Fsquare%2Frss.svg)(new window)](https:\/\/proton.me\/blog\/feed)\n- [![Threads](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fv1727943149%2Fstatic%2Fsocial%2Fsquare%2Fthreads.svg)(new window)](https:\/\/www.threads.net\/@protonprivacy)\n- [![Telegram](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fv1727943149%2Fstatic%2Fsocial%2Fsquare%2Ftelegram.svg)(new window)](https:\/\/t.me\/proton_privacy)\n- [![UserVoice](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fv1727943149%2Fstatic%2Fsocial%2Fsquare%2Fuservoice.svg)(new window)](https:\/\/protonmail.uservoice.com\/)\n- [![Youtube tutorials and updates](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fv1727943149%2Fstatic%2Fsocial%2Fsquare%2Fyoutube.svg)(new window)](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/@ProtonAG?sub_confirmation=1)\n- [![Youtube Proton Presents](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fv1727943149%2Fstatic%2Fsocial%2Fsquare%2Fyoutube-alt.svg)(new window)](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/@ProtonPrivacy?sub_confirmation=1)\n- [![TikTok](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fv1727943149%2Fstatic%2Fsocial%2Fsquare%2Ftiktok.svg)(new window)](https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/@privacytok)\n- [![Bluesky](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fv1727943149%2Fstatic%2Fsocial%2Fsquare%2Fbluesky.svg)(new window)](https:\/\/bsky.app\/profile\/proton.me)\n- [![Discord](https:\/\/vpncdn.protonweb.com\/image-transformation\/?s=c&image=image%2Fupload%2Fv1727943149%2Fstatic%2Fsocial%2Fsquare%2Fdiscord.svg)(new window)](https:\/\/discord.gg\/proton)\n\nProton AG\n\nRoute de la Galaise 32  \n1228 Plan-les-Ouates  \nGeneva, Switzerland\n\n- Features\n  - [Free VPN](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/free-vpn)\n  - [VPN servers](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/vpn-servers)\n  - [VPN for streaming](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/streaming)\n  - [Netflix VPN](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/streaming\/netflix)\n  - [Secure Core VPN](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/secure-core-vpn\/)\n  - [VPN for Business(new window)](https:\/\/proton.me\/business\/vpn?ref=pvpn_support_b2c_vpn_footer)\n  - [Getting started](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/protonvpn-setup-guide\/)\n- ### Features\n  - [Free VPN](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/free-vpn)\n  - [VPN servers](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/vpn-servers)\n  - [VPN for streaming](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/streaming)\n  - [Netflix VPN](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/streaming\/netflix)\n  - [Secure Core VPN](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/secure-core-vpn\/)\n  - [VPN for Business(new window)](https:\/\/proton.me\/business\/vpn?ref=pvpn_support_b2c_vpn_footer)\n  - [Getting started](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/protonvpn-setup-guide\/)\n- Platforms\n  - [Download VPN](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download)\n  - [VPN for Windows](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download-windows)\n  - [VPN for macOS](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download-macos)\n  - [VPN for Android](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download-android)\n  - [VPN for iOS](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download-ios)\n  - [VPN for Linux](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download-linux)\n  - [VPN for Chrome](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download-chrome-extension)\n  - [VPN for Firefox](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download-firefox-extension)\n  - [VPN for Chromebook](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download-chromebook)\n  - [VPN for Android TV](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download-androidtv)\n  - [VPN for Apple TV](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download-appletv)\n- ### Platforms\n  - [Download VPN](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download)\n  - [VPN for Windows](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download-windows)\n  - [VPN for macOS](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download-macos)\n  - [VPN for Android](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download-android)\n  - [VPN for iOS](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download-ios)\n  - [VPN for Linux](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download-linux)\n  - [VPN for Chrome](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download-chrome-extension)\n  - [VPN for Firefox](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download-firefox-extension)\n  - [VPN for Chromebook](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download-chromebook)\n  - [VPN for Android TV](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download-androidtv)\n  - [VPN for Apple TV](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/download-appletv)\n- Company\n  - [About us](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/about)\n  - [Proton Foundation(new window)](https:\/\/proton.me\/foundation?ref=pvpn_support_b2c_vpn_footer)\n  - [Blog](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/blog\/)\n  - [Careers(new window)](https:\/\/proton.me\/careers?ref=pvpn_support_b2c_vpn_footer)\n    We’re hiring\n  - [Threat model](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/blog\/threat-model)\n  - [Open source](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/blog\/open-source\/)\n- ### Company\n  - [About us](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/about)\n  - [Proton Foundation(new window)](https:\/\/proton.me\/foundation?ref=pvpn_support_b2c_vpn_footer)\n  - 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All rights reserved.","attrs_readable_markdown":"Port forwarding routes connections through the firewall that Proton VPN uses to protect our customers. It’s a feature that is mainly useful to people who download and share files using P2P protocols such as BitTorrent, although it can also improve performance for online gamers.\n\n[**Learn more about how port forwarding works**](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/blog\/port-forwarding\/)\n\nPort forwarding is currently available in our Windows, Mac, and Linux apps for everyone with a paid Proton VPN plan. If you have a free plan, you can upgrade to access it.\n\nYou can also manually configure port forwarding.\n\n[**Learn how to manually set up port forwarding**](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding-manual-setup)\n\nNote that port forwarding is only permitted on our special P2P servers. These are marked with a **double-arrow icon**. Note also that you can’t use port forwarding and [moderate (Type 2) NAT](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/moderate-nat) at the same time.\n\nIn this support article, we’ll look at:\n\n- [How to enable port forwarding on the Windows app](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding#windows)\n- [How to enable port forwarding on the macOS app](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding#mac)\n- [How to enable port forwarding using the Linux (GUI) app](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding#linux)\n- [How to enable port forwarding using the Linux CLI](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding#linux)\n- [How to configure port forwarding on qBittorrent](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding#qbittorrent)\n- [How to configure port forwarding on Vuze](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding#vuze)\n- [How to configure port forwarding on uTorrent (Classic)](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding#utorrent)\n## How to enable port forwarding\n### Windows\nPort forwarding is only permitted on our special P2P servers. To find these, go to **Home** → **Countries** → **P2P** tab.\n\n![How to port forward on Windows 1](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_1024,h_568,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1743756750\/wp-vpn\/image-4_11361a7a04\/image-4_11361a7a04.png?_i=AA)\n\n1\\. Select the **Port forwarding** shortcut on the home screen (you can also access the port forwarding settings via the **⚙** **Settings** menu).\n\n![How to port forward on Windows 2](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_1024,h_568,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1743756760\/wp-vpn\/image-5_11363adf4d\/image-5_11363adf4d.png?_i=AA)\n\n2\\. Toggle the **Port forwarding** switch **on**. By default, you’ll now get notified when the active port number changes, but, if you prefer, you can turn this off.\n\n![How to port forward on Windows 3](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_541,h_264,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1743756738\/wp-vpn\/image-7_1136633bd9\/image-7_1136633bd9.png?_i=AA)\n\n3\\. When you activate port forwarding, the VPN app sends a request to the VPN server to open a random port. This will forward traffic from the internet to the app. To see the **active port number**, hover your mouse cursor over the **Port forwarding** shortcut on the **Home** screen.\n\n![How to port forward on Windows 4](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_1024,h_576,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1743756775\/wp-vpn\/image-6_11365341d4\/image-6_11365341d4.png?_i=AA)\n\nYou’ll also receive a Windows notification displaying the port number when port forwarding is first turned on, and when the **active port number** changes.\n\n![How to port forward on Windows 5](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_375,h_250,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1743756744\/wp-vpn\/image-3_1136269ac7\/image-3_1136269ac7.png?_i=AA)\n\nYou’ll need this number to configure port forwarding on third-party software such as your BitTorrent client. Please note that when you disconnect and reconnect the VPN, the **active port number** will usually change.\n\nThis means you may need to update the port forwarding settings on your BitTorrent client for each VPN session, but doing so is very quick and easy (see [below](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding#bittorrent)), and the active port is available to use immediately.\n\n### macOS\nCurrently, port forwarding on macOS is an [early-access feature](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/enable-early-access-windows-mac\/).\n\nPort forwarding is only permitted on our special **P2P** servers. On our Mac app, these are marked with a **double-arrow icon**.\n\n![Mac app showing dozens of P2P servers based in Phoenix, Arizona.](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_1024,h_682,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755542165\/wp-vpn\/p2p-servers-1\/p2p-servers-1.png?_i=AA)\n\n1\\. Select the **Port forwarding** shortcut on the home screen.\n\n![The Mac app highlighting the port forwarding button on the home screen.](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_1024,h_695,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755542150\/wp-vpn\/port-forwarding-main-menu\/port-forwarding-main-menu.png?_i=AA)\n\n2\\. Select the **Port forwarding** **On** button. When you activate port forwarding, the VPN app sends a request to the VPN server to open a random port. This will forward traffic from the internet to the app. The **active port number** is shown underneath the **Port forwarding On** button.\n\n![](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_1024,h_715,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755542135\/wp-vpn\/port-forwarding-on\/port-forwarding-on.png?_i=AA)\n\nYou’ll need this number to configure port forwarding on third-party software like your torrenting client. Please note that, in most cases, the **active port number** will change when you disconnect and reconnect the VPN.\n\nThis means you will probably need to reconfigure your P2P client for each VPN session. However, doing this is very quick and easy (see [below](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding#bittorrent)), and the active port is available to use immediately.\n\n### Linux (GUI) app\nPort forwarding is only permitted on our special **P2P** servers. On our Linux app, these are marked with a **double-arrow icon**.\n\n![P2P servers are clearly labeled in the Linux app](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_316,h_504,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1739870945\/wp-vpn\/image-1_110090eae6\/image-1_110090eae6.png?_i=AA)\n\n1\\. Open the app, go to **Settings** → **Features**, and toggle the **Port forwarding** switch **on**.\n\n![Port forwading on our Linux app.](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_532,h_473,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1721663158\/wp-vpn\/port-forwading-linux-1\/port-forwading-linux-1.png?_i=AA)\n\n2\\. When port forwarding is activated, the VPN app sends a request to the VPN server to open a random port that will forward traffic from the internet to the app. The **active port number** used for this is shown in the information panel at the top of the main app window when you connect to one of our P2P VPN servers.\n\nYou’ll need this number to configure port forwarding on third-party software like your torrenting client. Please note that, in most cases, the **active port number** will change when you disconnect and reconnect the VPN.\n\nThis means you will probably need to reconfigure your P2P client for each VPN session. However, doing this is very quick and easy (see below), and the active port is available to use immediately.\n\n![The active port number is shown on the main screen](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_416,h_600,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1739870938\/wp-vpn\/image-2_1101010f9e\/image-2_1101010f9e.png?_i=AA)\n\nThe active port is also written to the file: **\/run\/user\/\\$UID\/Proton\/VPN\/forwarded\\_port**. This can be useful for triggering automating tasks like updating your torrent client configuration every time the port number changes.\n\n### Linux CLI\nEnabling port forwarding for the Linux CLI is a two-stage process:\n\n1\\. **Enable port forwarding in the CLI**\n\nOpen a terminal window and run:\n\n```\nprotonvpn config set port-forwarding on\n```\nCopied\n\nIf you’re connected to the VPN, you’ll need to reconnect for the new setting to take effect.\n\n2\\. **Configure port forwarding**\n\nFollow the instructions in our [How to manually set up port forwarding](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding-manual-setup#linux) guide. Start from **Step 2: Linux**.\n\n## How to configure port forwarding in your BitTorrent client\nPort forwarding will work in any BitTorrent app. We provide instructions for a few popular Windows torrent apps below, but the steps are similar for all such software. Just remember to disable any UPnP and NAT-PMP settings in your client.\n\nThe reason for this is that UPnP and NAT-PMP settings can conflict with settings in the Proton VPN app.\n\n### qBittorrent\n1\\. Enable port forwarding in the Proton VPN app (see above) and launch qBittorrent.\n\n2\\. Go to **Tools** → **Options** → **Connection** and disable **Use UPnP \/ NAT-PMP port forwarding from my router** (it is enabled by default)\n\n3\\. In the **Port used for incoming connections** field, enter the **active port number** shown in the Proton VPN app.\n\n![Eenable port forwarding in qBittorrent](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_696,h_322,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1721666964\/wp-vpn\/port-forwading-qbitorrent\/port-forwading-qbitorrent.png?_i=AA)\n\nClick **OK** when you’re done.\n\nTo prevent IP leaks while you’re torrenting, you should take additional steps to ensure that qBitTorrent is bound to the correct interface. You can do so by following our guide on [how to bind your BitTorrent client to the VPN interface](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/bittorrent-vpn#binding-your-bittorrent-client-to-the-vpn-interface).\n\n### Vuze\nThe screenshots below show Vuze in **Beginner** [Mode(new window)](https:\/\/wiki.vuze.com\/w\/Mode), but the steps are identical for all modes.\n\n1\\. Enable port forwarding in the Proton VPN app (see above) and launch Vuze.\n\n2\\. Go to **Tools** → **Options** → **Plugins** → **UPnP** and uncheck (disable) **Enable UPnP**.\n\n![Disable uPnP in Vuze](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_865,h_506,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1721666974\/wp-vpn\/port-forwarding-vuze-1\/port-forwarding-vuze-1.png?_i=AA)\n\n3\\. While still on the Options page, go to **Connection** and enter the **active port number** shown in the Proton VPN app.\n\n![Set listen port in Vuze](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_958,h_447,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1721666968\/wp-vpn\/port-forwarding-vuze-2\/port-forwarding-vuze-2.png?_i=AA)\n\nClick **Save** when you’re done.\n\n### uTorrent (Classic)\n1\\. Enable port forwarding in the Proton VPN app (see above) and launch uTorrent.\n\n2\\. Go to **Options** → **Preferences** → **Connection** and **uncheck (**disable) both **Enable UPnP port mapping** and **Enable NAT-PMP port mapping**.\n\n![Disable UPnP and NAT\\_PMP in uTorrent](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_660,h_489,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1721666960\/wp-vpn\/port-forwarding-utorrent-1\/port-forwarding-utorrent-1.png?_i=AA)\n\n3\\. In the **Port used for incoming connections** field, enter the **active port number** shown in the Proton VPN app.\n\n![Set listening port in uTorrent](https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/dbulfrlrz\/images\/w_660,h_489,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1721666954\/wp-vpn\/port-forwarding-utorrent-2\/port-forwarding-utorrent-2.png?_i=AA)\n\nClick **Apply** when you’re done.\n\nOpening a port carries a small risk. See [Port forwarding security considerations](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/support\/port-forwarding-risks) for more details.\n\n## A word about online port checkers\nOnline port checker tools allow you to check for open ports on your device and verify that port forwarding is working correctly. However, **open ports can only be detected if an application is actively listening on that port**.\n\n### How port checker tools work\nPort checker tools work in the following way:\n\n1\\. **Connection Attempt**: The tool sends a request to establish a connection to the specified port on your public I[P address](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/blog\/what-is-an-ip-address\/). When using a VPN, this will be the IP address of the [VPN server](https:\/\/protonvpn.com\/vpn-servers).\n\n2\\. **Response Analysis**: It will then wait for a response:\n\n- **Open**: If an application is actively listening on that port and port forwarding is working correctly, the port checker will successfully establish a connection and mark the port as **open**.\n- **Closed** or **Filtered**: If no application is listening on the port, or if our firewall is blocking the connection (for example, if port forwarding is not working correctly), the port checker will either receive a “connection refused” message or the connection will time out. In these cases, the port will be reported as **closed** or **filtered**.\n### Example\nUsing the Proton VPN port forwarding feature, you have opened port 44375 in our NAT firewall. However, until you configure an app to listen on that port, an online port checker tool will return a **closed** or **filtered** result.\n\nIf you configure an app to listen on port 44375 (such as one of the torrent clients described above) and check again, the port checker tool will be able to connect to the app through our firewall and return an **open** result.","meta_canonical":null}

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Page Details

Property	Value
URL	https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding
Last Crawled	2026-04-22 03:19:48 (4 hours ago)
First Indexed	2022-04-04 14:30:14 (4 years ago)
HTTP Status Code	200
Meta Title	Port forwarding \| Proton VPN
Meta Description	Port forwarding setup guide for ProtonVPN, plus how to configure popular torrent clients for port forwarding
Meta Canonical	null
Boilerpipe Text	Port forwarding routes connections through the firewall that Proton VPN uses to protect our customers. It’s a feature that is mainly useful to people who download and share files using P2P protocols such as BitTorrent, although it can also improve performance for online gamers. Learn more about how port forwarding works Port forwarding is currently available in our Windows, Mac, and Linux apps for everyone with a paid Proton VPN plan. If you have a free plan, you can upgrade to access it. You can also manually configure port forwarding. Learn how to manually set up port forwarding Note that port forwarding is only permitted on our special P2P servers. These are marked with a double-arrow icon . Note also that you can’t use port forwarding and moderate (Type 2) NAT at the same time. In this support article, we’ll look at: How to enable port forwarding on the Windows app How to enable port forwarding on the macOS app How to enable port forwarding using the Linux (GUI) app How to enable port forwarding using the Linux CLI How to configure port forwarding on qBittorrent How to configure port forwarding on Vuze How to configure port forwarding on uTorrent (Classic) How to enable port forwarding Windows Port forwarding is only permitted on our special P2P servers. To find these, go to Home → Countries → P2P tab. 1. Select the Port forwarding shortcut on the home screen (you can also access the port forwarding settings via the ⚙ Settings menu). 2. Toggle the Port forwarding switch on . By default, you’ll now get notified when the active port number changes, but, if you prefer, you can turn this off. 3. When you activate port forwarding, the VPN app sends a request to the VPN server to open a random port. This will forward traffic from the internet to the app. To see the active port number , hover your mouse cursor over the Port forwarding shortcut on the Home screen. You’ll also receive a Windows notification displaying the port number when port forwarding is first turned on, and when the active port number changes. You’ll need this number to configure port forwarding on third-party software such as your BitTorrent client. Please note that when you disconnect and reconnect the VPN, the active port number will usually change. This means you may need to update the port forwarding settings on your BitTorrent client for each VPN session, but doing so is very quick and easy (see below ), and the active port is available to use immediately. macOS Currently, port forwarding on macOS is an early-access feature . Port forwarding is only permitted on our special P2P servers. On our Mac app, these are marked with a double-arrow icon . 1. Select the Port forwarding shortcut on the home screen. 2. Select the Port forwarding On button. When you activate port forwarding, the VPN app sends a request to the VPN server to open a random port. This will forward traffic from the internet to the app. The active port number is shown underneath the Port forwarding On button. You’ll need this number to configure port forwarding on third-party software like your torrenting client. Please note that, in most cases, the active port number will change when you disconnect and reconnect the VPN. This means you will probably need to reconfigure your P2P client for each VPN session. However, doing this is very quick and easy (see below ), and the active port is available to use immediately. Linux (GUI) app Port forwarding is only permitted on our special P2P servers. On our Linux app, these are marked with a double-arrow icon . 1. Open the app, go to Settings → Features , and toggle the Port forwarding switch on . 2. When port forwarding is activated, the VPN app sends a request to the VPN server to open a random port that will forward traffic from the internet to the app. The active port number used for this is shown in the information panel at the top of the main app window when you connect to one of our P2P VPN servers. You’ll need this number to configure port forwarding on third-party software like your torrenting client. Please note that, in most cases, the active port number will change when you disconnect and reconnect the VPN. This means you will probably need to reconfigure your P2P client for each VPN session. However, doing this is very quick and easy (see below), and the active port is available to use immediately. The active port is also written to the file: /run/user/$UID/Proton/VPN/forwarded_port . This can be useful for triggering automating tasks like updating your torrent client configuration every time the port number changes. Linux CLI Enabling port forwarding for the Linux CLI is a two-stage process: 1. Enable port forwarding in the CLI Open a terminal window and run: protonvpn config set port-forwarding on Copied If you’re connected to the VPN, you’ll need to reconnect for the new setting to take effect. 2. Configure port forwarding Follow the instructions in our How to manually set up port forwarding guide. Start from Step 2: Linux . How to configure port forwarding in your BitTorrent client Port forwarding will work in any BitTorrent app. We provide instructions for a few popular Windows torrent apps below, but the steps are similar for all such software. Just remember to disable any UPnP and NAT-PMP settings in your client. The reason for this is that UPnP and NAT-PMP settings can conflict with settings in the Proton VPN app. qBittorrent 1. Enable port forwarding in the Proton VPN app (see above) and launch qBittorrent. 2. Go to Tools → Options → Connection and disable Use UPnP / NAT-PMP port forwarding from my router (it is enabled by default) 3. In the Port used for incoming connections field, enter the active port number shown in the Proton VPN app. Click OK when you’re done. To prevent IP leaks while you’re torrenting, you should take additional steps to ensure that qBitTorrent is bound to the correct interface. You can do so by following our guide on how to bind your BitTorrent client to the VPN interface . Vuze The screenshots below show Vuze in Beginner Mode (new window) , but the steps are identical for all modes. 1. Enable port forwarding in the Proton VPN app (see above) and launch Vuze. 2. Go to Tools → Options → Plugins → UPnP and uncheck (disable) Enable UPnP . 3. While still on the Options page, go to Connection and enter the active port number shown in the Proton VPN app. Click Save when you’re done. uTorrent (Classic) 1. Enable port forwarding in the Proton VPN app (see above) and launch uTorrent. 2. Go to Options → Preferences → Connection and uncheck ( disable) both Enable UPnP port mapping and Enable NAT-PMP port mapping . 3. In the Port used for incoming connections field, enter the active port number shown in the Proton VPN app. Click Apply when you’re done. Opening a port carries a small risk. See Port forwarding security considerations for more details. A word about online port checkers Online port checker tools allow you to check for open ports on your device and verify that port forwarding is working correctly. However, open ports can only be detected if an application is actively listening on that port . How port checker tools work Port checker tools work in the following way: 1. Connection Attempt : The tool sends a request to establish a connection to the specified port on your public I P address . When using a VPN, this will be the IP address of the VPN server . 2. Response Analysis : It will then wait for a response: Open : If an application is actively listening on that port and port forwarding is working correctly, the port checker will successfully establish a connection and mark the port as open . Closed or Filtered : If no application is listening on the port, or if our firewall is blocking the connection (for example, if port forwarding is not working correctly), the port checker will either receive a “connection refused” message or the connection will time out. In these cases, the port will be reported as closed or filtered . Example Using the Proton VPN port forwarding feature, you have opened port 44375 in our NAT firewall. However, until you configure an app to listen on that port, an online port checker tool will return a closed or filtered result. If you configure an app to listen on port 44375 (such as one of the torrent clients described above) and check again, the port checker tool will be able to connect to the app through our firewall and return an open result.
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[Support](https://protonvpn.com/support) 2. [Proton VPN Features](https://protonvpn.com/support/protonvpn-features) 3. [Port forwarding](https://protonvpn.com/support/protonvpn-features/port-forwarding) Support search # Port forwarding Reading 10 mins Category Port forwarding Port forwarding routes connections through the firewall that Proton VPN uses to protect our customers. It’s a feature that is mainly useful to people who download and share files using P2P protocols such as BitTorrent, although it can also improve performance for online gamers. [Learn more about how port forwarding works](https://protonvpn.com/blog/port-forwarding/) Port forwarding is currently available in our Windows, Mac, and Linux apps for everyone with a paid Proton VPN plan. If you have a free plan, you can upgrade to access it. [Get Proton VPN Plus](https://protonvpn.com/pricing/) You can also manually configure port forwarding. [Learn how to manually set up port forwarding](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding-manual-setup) Note that port forwarding is only permitted on our special P2P servers. These are marked with a double-arrow icon. Note also that you can’t use port forwarding and [moderate (Type 2) NAT](https://protonvpn.com/support/moderate-nat) at the same time. In this support article, we’ll look at: - [How to enable port forwarding on the Windows app](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding#windows) - [How to enable port forwarding on the macOS app](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding#mac) - [How to enable port forwarding using the Linux (GUI) app](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding#linux) - [How to enable port forwarding using the Linux CLI](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding#linux) - [How to configure port forwarding on qBittorrent](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding#qbittorrent) - [How to configure port forwarding on Vuze](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding#vuze) - [How to configure port forwarding on uTorrent (Classic)](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding#utorrent) ## How to enable port forwarding ### Windows Port forwarding is only permitted on our special P2P servers. To find these, go to Home → Countries → P2P tab. ![How to port forward on Windows 1](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_1024,h_568,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1743756750/wp-vpn/image-4_11361a7a04/image-4_11361a7a04.png?_i=AA) 1\. Select the Port forwarding shortcut on the home screen (you can also access the port forwarding settings via the ⚙ Settings menu). ![How to port forward on Windows 2](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_1024,h_568,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1743756760/wp-vpn/image-5_11363adf4d/image-5_11363adf4d.png?_i=AA) 2\. Toggle the Port forwarding switch on. By default, you’ll now get notified when the active port number changes, but, if you prefer, you can turn this off. ![How to port forward on Windows 3](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_541,h_264,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1743756738/wp-vpn/image-7_1136633bd9/image-7_1136633bd9.png?_i=AA) 3\. When you activate port forwarding, the VPN app sends a request to the VPN server to open a random port. This will forward traffic from the internet to the app. To see the active port number, hover your mouse cursor over the Port forwarding shortcut on the Home screen. ![How to port forward on Windows 4](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_1024,h_576,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1743756775/wp-vpn/image-6_11365341d4/image-6_11365341d4.png?_i=AA) You’ll also receive a Windows notification displaying the port number when port forwarding is first turned on, and when the active port number changes. ![How to port forward on Windows 5](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_375,h_250,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1743756744/wp-vpn/image-3_1136269ac7/image-3_1136269ac7.png?_i=AA) You’ll need this number to configure port forwarding on third-party software such as your BitTorrent client. Please note that when you disconnect and reconnect the VPN, the active port number will usually change. This means you may need to update the port forwarding settings on your BitTorrent client for each VPN session, but doing so is very quick and easy (see [below](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding#bittorrent)), and the active port is available to use immediately. ### macOS Currently, port forwarding on macOS is an [early-access feature](https://protonvpn.com/support/enable-early-access-windows-mac/). Port forwarding is only permitted on our special P2P servers. On our Mac app, these are marked with a double-arrow icon. ![Mac app showing dozens of P2P servers based in Phoenix, Arizona.](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_1024,h_682,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1755542165/wp-vpn/p2p-servers-1/p2p-servers-1.png?_i=AA) 1\. Select the Port forwarding shortcut on the home screen. ![The Mac app highlighting the port forwarding button on the home screen.](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_1024,h_695,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1755542150/wp-vpn/port-forwarding-main-menu/port-forwarding-main-menu.png?_i=AA) 2\. Select the Port forwarding On button. When you activate port forwarding, the VPN app sends a request to the VPN server to open a random port. This will forward traffic from the internet to the app. The active port number is shown underneath the Port forwarding On button. ![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_1024,h_715,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1755542135/wp-vpn/port-forwarding-on/port-forwarding-on.png?_i=AA) You’ll need this number to configure port forwarding on third-party software like your torrenting client. Please note that, in most cases, the active port number will change when you disconnect and reconnect the VPN. This means you will probably need to reconfigure your P2P client for each VPN session. However, doing this is very quick and easy (see [below](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding#bittorrent)), and the active port is available to use immediately. ### Linux (GUI) app Port forwarding is only permitted on our special P2P servers. On our Linux app, these are marked with a double-arrow icon. ![P2P servers are clearly labeled in the Linux app](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_316,h_504,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1739870945/wp-vpn/image-1_110090eae6/image-1_110090eae6.png?_i=AA) 1\. Open the app, go to Settings → Features, and toggle the Port forwarding switch on. ![Port forwading on our Linux app.](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_532,h_473,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1721663158/wp-vpn/port-forwading-linux-1/port-forwading-linux-1.png?_i=AA) 2\. When port forwarding is activated, the VPN app sends a request to the VPN server to open a random port that will forward traffic from the internet to the app. The active port number used for this is shown in the information panel at the top of the main app window when you connect to one of our P2P VPN servers. You’ll need this number to configure port forwarding on third-party software like your torrenting client. Please note that, in most cases, the active port number will change when you disconnect and reconnect the VPN. This means you will probably need to reconfigure your P2P client for each VPN session. However, doing this is very quick and easy (see below), and the active port is available to use immediately. ![The active port number is shown on the main screen](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_416,h_600,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1739870938/wp-vpn/image-2_1101010f9e/image-2_1101010f9e.png?_i=AA) The active port is also written to the file: /run/user/\$UID/Proton/VPN/forwarded\_port. This can be useful for triggering automating tasks like updating your torrent client configuration every time the port number changes. ### Linux CLI Enabling port forwarding for the Linux CLI is a two-stage process: 1\. Enable port forwarding in the CLI Open a terminal window and run: ``` protonvpn config set port-forwarding on ``` Copy Copied If you’re connected to the VPN, you’ll need to reconnect for the new setting to take effect. 2\. Configure port forwarding Follow the instructions in our [How to manually set up port forwarding](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding-manual-setup#linux) guide. Start from Step 2: Linux. ## How to configure port forwarding in your BitTorrent client Port forwarding will work in any BitTorrent app. We provide instructions for a few popular Windows torrent apps below, but the steps are similar for all such software. Just remember to disable any UPnP and NAT-PMP settings in your client. The reason for this is that UPnP and NAT-PMP settings can conflict with settings in the Proton VPN app. ### qBittorrent 1\. Enable port forwarding in the Proton VPN app (see above) and launch qBittorrent. 2\. Go to Tools → Options → Connection and disable Use UPnP / NAT-PMP port forwarding from my router (it is enabled by default) 3\. In the Port used for incoming connections field, enter the active port number shown in the Proton VPN app. ![Eenable port forwarding in qBittorrent](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_696,h_322,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1721666964/wp-vpn/port-forwading-qbitorrent/port-forwading-qbitorrent.png?_i=AA) Click OK when you’re done. To prevent IP leaks while you’re torrenting, you should take additional steps to ensure that qBitTorrent is bound to the correct interface. You can do so by following our guide on [how to bind your BitTorrent client to the VPN interface](https://protonvpn.com/support/bittorrent-vpn#binding-your-bittorrent-client-to-the-vpn-interface). ### Vuze The screenshots below show Vuze in Beginner [Mode(new window)](https://wiki.vuze.com/w/Mode), but the steps are identical for all modes. 1\. Enable port forwarding in the Proton VPN app (see above) and launch Vuze. 2\. Go to Tools → Options → Plugins → UPnP and uncheck (disable) Enable UPnP. ![Disable uPnP in Vuze](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_865,h_506,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1721666974/wp-vpn/port-forwarding-vuze-1/port-forwarding-vuze-1.png?_i=AA) 3\. While still on the Options page, go to Connection and enter the active port number shown in the Proton VPN app. ![Set listen port in Vuze](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_958,h_447,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1721666968/wp-vpn/port-forwarding-vuze-2/port-forwarding-vuze-2.png?_i=AA) Click Save when you’re done. ### uTorrent (Classic) 1\. Enable port forwarding in the Proton VPN app (see above) and launch uTorrent. 2\. Go to Options → Preferences → Connection and uncheck (disable) both Enable UPnP port mapping and Enable NAT-PMP port mapping. ![Disable UPnP and NAT\_PMP in uTorrent](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_660,h_489,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1721666960/wp-vpn/port-forwarding-utorrent-1/port-forwarding-utorrent-1.png?_i=AA) 3\. In the Port used for incoming connections field, enter the active port number shown in the Proton VPN app. ![Set listening port in uTorrent](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_660,h_489,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1721666954/wp-vpn/port-forwarding-utorrent-2/port-forwarding-utorrent-2.png?_i=AA) Click Apply when you’re done. Opening a port carries a small risk. See [Port forwarding security considerations](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding-risks) for more details. ## A word about online port checkers Online port checker tools allow you to check for open ports on your device and verify that port forwarding is working correctly. However, open ports can only be detected if an application is actively listening on that port. ### How port checker tools work Port checker tools work in the following way: 1\. Connection Attempt: The tool sends a request to establish a connection to the specified port on your public I[P address](https://protonvpn.com/blog/what-is-an-ip-address/). When using a VPN, this will be the IP address of the [VPN server](https://protonvpn.com/vpn-servers). 2\. Response Analysis: It will then wait for a response: - Open: If an application is actively listening on that port and port forwarding is working correctly, the port checker will successfully establish a connection and mark the port as open. - Closed or Filtered: If no application is listening on the port, or if our firewall is blocking the connection (for example, if port forwarding is not working correctly), the port checker will either receive a “connection refused” message or the connection will time out. In these cases, the port will be reported as closed or filtered. ### Example Using the Proton VPN port forwarding feature, you have opened port 44375 in our NAT firewall. However, until you configure an app to listen on that port, an online port checker tool will return a closed or filtered result. If you configure an app to listen on port 44375 (such as one of the torrent clients described above) and check again, the port checker tool will be able to connect to the app through our firewall and return an open result. On this page - [How to enable port forwarding](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding#how-to-enable-port-forwarding) - [How to configure port forwarding in your BitTorrent client](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding#bittorrent) - [A word about online port checkers](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding#port-checkers) Port forwarding - [How to manually set up port forwarding](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding-manual-setup) - [Port forwarding security considerations](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding-risks) ## Didn’t find what you were looking for? 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Readable Markdown	Port forwarding routes connections through the firewall that Proton VPN uses to protect our customers. It’s a feature that is mainly useful to people who download and share files using P2P protocols such as BitTorrent, although it can also improve performance for online gamers. [Learn more about how port forwarding works](https://protonvpn.com/blog/port-forwarding/) Port forwarding is currently available in our Windows, Mac, and Linux apps for everyone with a paid Proton VPN plan. If you have a free plan, you can upgrade to access it. You can also manually configure port forwarding. [Learn how to manually set up port forwarding](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding-manual-setup) Note that port forwarding is only permitted on our special P2P servers. These are marked with a double-arrow icon. Note also that you can’t use port forwarding and [moderate (Type 2) NAT](https://protonvpn.com/support/moderate-nat) at the same time. In this support article, we’ll look at: - [How to enable port forwarding on the Windows app](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding#windows) - [How to enable port forwarding on the macOS app](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding#mac) - [How to enable port forwarding using the Linux (GUI) app](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding#linux) - [How to enable port forwarding using the Linux CLI](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding#linux) - [How to configure port forwarding on qBittorrent](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding#qbittorrent) - [How to configure port forwarding on Vuze](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding#vuze) - [How to configure port forwarding on uTorrent (Classic)](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding#utorrent) ## How to enable port forwarding ### Windows Port forwarding is only permitted on our special P2P servers. To find these, go to Home → Countries → P2P tab. ![How to port forward on Windows 1](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_1024,h_568,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1743756750/wp-vpn/image-4_11361a7a04/image-4_11361a7a04.png?_i=AA) 1\. Select the Port forwarding shortcut on the home screen (you can also access the port forwarding settings via the ⚙ Settings menu). ![How to port forward on Windows 2](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_1024,h_568,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1743756760/wp-vpn/image-5_11363adf4d/image-5_11363adf4d.png?_i=AA) 2\. Toggle the Port forwarding switch on. By default, you’ll now get notified when the active port number changes, but, if you prefer, you can turn this off. ![How to port forward on Windows 3](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_541,h_264,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1743756738/wp-vpn/image-7_1136633bd9/image-7_1136633bd9.png?_i=AA) 3\. When you activate port forwarding, the VPN app sends a request to the VPN server to open a random port. This will forward traffic from the internet to the app. To see the active port number, hover your mouse cursor over the Port forwarding shortcut on the Home screen. ![How to port forward on Windows 4](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_1024,h_576,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1743756775/wp-vpn/image-6_11365341d4/image-6_11365341d4.png?_i=AA) You’ll also receive a Windows notification displaying the port number when port forwarding is first turned on, and when the active port number changes. ![How to port forward on Windows 5](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_375,h_250,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1743756744/wp-vpn/image-3_1136269ac7/image-3_1136269ac7.png?_i=AA) You’ll need this number to configure port forwarding on third-party software such as your BitTorrent client. Please note that when you disconnect and reconnect the VPN, the active port number will usually change. This means you may need to update the port forwarding settings on your BitTorrent client for each VPN session, but doing so is very quick and easy (see [below](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding#bittorrent)), and the active port is available to use immediately. ### macOS Currently, port forwarding on macOS is an [early-access feature](https://protonvpn.com/support/enable-early-access-windows-mac/). Port forwarding is only permitted on our special P2P servers. On our Mac app, these are marked with a double-arrow icon. ![Mac app showing dozens of P2P servers based in Phoenix, Arizona.](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_1024,h_682,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1755542165/wp-vpn/p2p-servers-1/p2p-servers-1.png?_i=AA) 1\. Select the Port forwarding shortcut on the home screen. ![The Mac app highlighting the port forwarding button on the home screen.](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_1024,h_695,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1755542150/wp-vpn/port-forwarding-main-menu/port-forwarding-main-menu.png?_i=AA) 2\. Select the Port forwarding On button. When you activate port forwarding, the VPN app sends a request to the VPN server to open a random port. This will forward traffic from the internet to the app. The active port number is shown underneath the Port forwarding On button. ![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_1024,h_715,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1755542135/wp-vpn/port-forwarding-on/port-forwarding-on.png?_i=AA) You’ll need this number to configure port forwarding on third-party software like your torrenting client. Please note that, in most cases, the active port number will change when you disconnect and reconnect the VPN. This means you will probably need to reconfigure your P2P client for each VPN session. However, doing this is very quick and easy (see [below](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding#bittorrent)), and the active port is available to use immediately. ### Linux (GUI) app Port forwarding is only permitted on our special P2P servers. On our Linux app, these are marked with a double-arrow icon. ![P2P servers are clearly labeled in the Linux app](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_316,h_504,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1739870945/wp-vpn/image-1_110090eae6/image-1_110090eae6.png?_i=AA) 1\. Open the app, go to Settings → Features, and toggle the Port forwarding switch on. ![Port forwading on our Linux app.](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_532,h_473,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1721663158/wp-vpn/port-forwading-linux-1/port-forwading-linux-1.png?_i=AA) 2\. When port forwarding is activated, the VPN app sends a request to the VPN server to open a random port that will forward traffic from the internet to the app. The active port number used for this is shown in the information panel at the top of the main app window when you connect to one of our P2P VPN servers. You’ll need this number to configure port forwarding on third-party software like your torrenting client. Please note that, in most cases, the active port number will change when you disconnect and reconnect the VPN. This means you will probably need to reconfigure your P2P client for each VPN session. However, doing this is very quick and easy (see below), and the active port is available to use immediately. ![The active port number is shown on the main screen](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_416,h_600,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1739870938/wp-vpn/image-2_1101010f9e/image-2_1101010f9e.png?_i=AA) The active port is also written to the file: /run/user/\$UID/Proton/VPN/forwarded\_port. This can be useful for triggering automating tasks like updating your torrent client configuration every time the port number changes. ### Linux CLI Enabling port forwarding for the Linux CLI is a two-stage process: 1\. Enable port forwarding in the CLI Open a terminal window and run: ``` protonvpn config set port-forwarding on ``` Copied If you’re connected to the VPN, you’ll need to reconnect for the new setting to take effect. 2\. Configure port forwarding Follow the instructions in our [How to manually set up port forwarding](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding-manual-setup#linux) guide. Start from Step 2: Linux. ## How to configure port forwarding in your BitTorrent client Port forwarding will work in any BitTorrent app. We provide instructions for a few popular Windows torrent apps below, but the steps are similar for all such software. Just remember to disable any UPnP and NAT-PMP settings in your client. The reason for this is that UPnP and NAT-PMP settings can conflict with settings in the Proton VPN app. ### qBittorrent 1\. Enable port forwarding in the Proton VPN app (see above) and launch qBittorrent. 2\. Go to Tools → Options → Connection and disable Use UPnP / NAT-PMP port forwarding from my router (it is enabled by default) 3\. In the Port used for incoming connections field, enter the active port number shown in the Proton VPN app. ![Eenable port forwarding in qBittorrent](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_696,h_322,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1721666964/wp-vpn/port-forwading-qbitorrent/port-forwading-qbitorrent.png?_i=AA) Click OK when you’re done. To prevent IP leaks while you’re torrenting, you should take additional steps to ensure that qBitTorrent is bound to the correct interface. You can do so by following our guide on [how to bind your BitTorrent client to the VPN interface](https://protonvpn.com/support/bittorrent-vpn#binding-your-bittorrent-client-to-the-vpn-interface). ### Vuze The screenshots below show Vuze in Beginner [Mode(new window)](https://wiki.vuze.com/w/Mode), but the steps are identical for all modes. 1\. Enable port forwarding in the Proton VPN app (see above) and launch Vuze. 2\. Go to Tools → Options → Plugins → UPnP and uncheck (disable) Enable UPnP. ![Disable uPnP in Vuze](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_865,h_506,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1721666974/wp-vpn/port-forwarding-vuze-1/port-forwarding-vuze-1.png?_i=AA) 3\. While still on the Options page, go to Connection and enter the active port number shown in the Proton VPN app. ![Set listen port in Vuze](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_958,h_447,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1721666968/wp-vpn/port-forwarding-vuze-2/port-forwarding-vuze-2.png?_i=AA) Click Save when you’re done. ### uTorrent (Classic) 1\. Enable port forwarding in the Proton VPN app (see above) and launch uTorrent. 2\. Go to Options → Preferences → Connection and uncheck (disable) both Enable UPnP port mapping and Enable NAT-PMP port mapping. ![Disable UPnP and NAT\_PMP in uTorrent](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_660,h_489,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1721666960/wp-vpn/port-forwarding-utorrent-1/port-forwarding-utorrent-1.png?_i=AA) 3\. In the Port used for incoming connections field, enter the active port number shown in the Proton VPN app. ![Set listening port in uTorrent](https://res.cloudinary.com/dbulfrlrz/images/w_660,h_489,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1721666954/wp-vpn/port-forwarding-utorrent-2/port-forwarding-utorrent-2.png?_i=AA) Click Apply when you’re done. Opening a port carries a small risk. See [Port forwarding security considerations](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding-risks) for more details. ## A word about online port checkers Online port checker tools allow you to check for open ports on your device and verify that port forwarding is working correctly. However, open ports can only be detected if an application is actively listening on that port. ### How port checker tools work Port checker tools work in the following way: 1\. Connection Attempt: The tool sends a request to establish a connection to the specified port on your public I[P address](https://protonvpn.com/blog/what-is-an-ip-address/). When using a VPN, this will be the IP address of the [VPN server](https://protonvpn.com/vpn-servers). 2\. Response Analysis: It will then wait for a response: - Open: If an application is actively listening on that port and port forwarding is working correctly, the port checker will successfully establish a connection and mark the port as open. - Closed or Filtered: If no application is listening on the port, or if our firewall is blocking the connection (for example, if port forwarding is not working correctly), the port checker will either receive a “connection refused” message or the connection will time out. In these cases, the port will be reported as closed or filtered. ### Example Using the Proton VPN port forwarding feature, you have opened port 44375 in our NAT firewall. However, until you configure an app to listen on that port, an online port checker tool will return a closed or filtered result. If you configure an app to listen on port 44375 (such as one of the torrent clients described above) and check again, the port checker tool will be able to connect to the app through our firewall and return an open result.
Shard	162 (laksa)
Root Hash	12885006805053501762
Unparsed URL	com,protonvpn!/support/port-forwarding s443