Port forwarding creates static mappings for inbound connections to reach internal servers.
How it works:
- You configure: public port 8080 to 192.168.1.50:80
- External users connect to your public IP on port 8080
- Router forwards traffic to internal web server
Common use cases:
- Hosting a web server from home
- Running a game server
- Remote access to security cameras
Configuration example: External Port: 8080, Internal IP: 192.168.1.50, Internal Port: 80, Protocol: TCP
Security: Only forward ports you need. Keep services updated. Monitor logs.