Game cannot be advertised online

[DutchArjo]

Right now I am trying to setup a game with a friend of mine. Our only option is OpenRA because CNCnet doesn't support MAC.
However, when I create a game I get the 'server port is not accessible from the internet'.

I created a port forwarding rule in my router to open the correct port. I enabled uPNP but still, I get the same error. What do I have to do to get a private online game online and why is it so difficult in OpenRA while in CNC you don't have to do anything to get your game online, whats the difference?

[jorisd12]

Do you have the I.P correct?

[jorisd12]

btw u dutch?

[DutchArjo]

Yes..

[abcdefg30]

If it says the port is not available from the internet then there is still some configuration problem. Could it be the firewall on your computer? You might also need to check if your ISP allows this.

[Punsho]

You should always just try to use public servers. There's no need to go through the hassle of hosting yourself

[randall01]

Sometimes, double-checking the port number and ensuring it matches your router settings can help resolve the issue.

[Coughter]

Right now I am trying to setup a game with a friend of mine. Our only option is OpenRA because CNCnet doesn't support MAC.
However, when I create a game I get the 'server port is not accessible from the internet'.

I created a port forwarding rule in my router to open the correct port. I enabled uPNP but still, I get the same error. What do I have to do to get a private online game online and why is it so difficult in OpenRA while in CNC you don't have to do anything to get your game online, whats the difference?

You're on the right track with port forwarding. OpenRA requires port 1234 (by default) to be open and accessible for hosting. Unlike CNCNet, which uses relay servers to handle connections (so hosts don’t need port forwarding), OpenRA relies on direct peer-to-peer hosting — meaning your router must allow incoming traffic.
Here’s what you can double-check:
Make sure port 1234 (TCP and UDP) is forwarded to your local IP correctly.
Ensure your firewall (Windows/macOS or antivirus) isn’t blocking OpenRA.
If possible, assign a static IP to your machine to avoid IP changes that break the forwarding.
Sometimes uPNP conflicts with manual forwarding — try disabling uPNP if forwarding manually.
Finally, test using a tool like canyouseeme.org to confirm the port is truly open.
Yes, it’s a bit more complex because OpenRA doesn’t use central servers like CNCNet — but once set up, it works reliably for private games.