Looking for a new router with NAT Loopback/NAT Reflection/NAT Hairpining functionality

Serialk1llr

Currently have an old Asus RT-AC3200. Wanting to run private gaming server[s] (Specifically ARK right now). The issue I've run into is ARK Server Manager *specifically* requires NAT Loopback, aka NAT Reflection, aka NAT Hairpining functionality. My current router does not have this nor does any third party firmware like OpenWRT or Merlin (my router is no longer supported due to age it looks like). Most routers I've looked at don't even mention this as an option or spec.

TLDR: Need a new router w/WiFi that also supports NAT Loopback/NAT Reflection/NAT Hairpining functionality

Lambdaben

I know you can definitely do this with a Ubiquiti Dream Machines and Edge Routers by setting NAT in/out rules, but most routers should have that functionality built it as long as its a newer router.

PowerSpec_MikeW

@Serialk1llr

Netgear Nighthawk: https://kb.netgear.com/000049578/Which-NETGEAR-routers-support-NAT-loopback

They've got a good number of routers that support this feature. It existed at one point in the Merlin software, but not for a few years. Is the issue with outside clients connecting or other LAN clients? I feel like there has to be a better option than NAT hairpinning. You can probably work around the problem temporarily by adding the Microsoft local loopback adapter. Problem is you'll need to update your WAN IP manually when it changes.

Serialk1llr

https://community.microcenter.com/discussion/comment/49770#Comment_49770

Does this require both the Dream Machine and Edge routers together or just one of the two?

Serialk1llr

https://community.microcenter.com/discussion/comment/49772#Comment_49772

From all the reading I've done (I'm by no means an expert here) the biggest problem child specifically is ARK servers that require this - it's needed so people outside of my LAN can see the servers, (and be reported to steam).

Lambdaben

Just one, but they are both technically prosumer/business solutions.

Scary_Guy

https://routersecurity.org if you want to get into the weeds.

Personally I want a Banana Pi, but that's a little bit more hobbiest.

My advice is find something cheap that you can stick OpenWRT on.