How to open ports in your firewall

Both viewing and broadcasting content with IBM Video Streaming requires certain ports to be open. Although the specific steps for opening these ports differ between operating systems and browser types, certain principles are universal. In most cases, no changes will need to be made to your firewall in order to broadcast.

IMPORTANT: If changes do need to be made, ensure that your network administrator is aware of any proposed modifications. Changing firewall settings directly impacts your network security and can have consequences beyond broadcasting with IBM Video Streaming.

DO NOT make any changes to your network’s firewall unless you are completely confident in what you are doing. If you have any doubts, contact your network administrator and have them handle the configuration.

Computer Ports vs. Network Ports

You can learn more about firewall ports in our related documentation. Ports in your computer’s firewall control whether a program can access or be accessed by your computer.

Network ports exist on your network firewall and serve the same purpose, except that opening or closing ports on the network firewall controls access for all devices on that network.

Opening Network Ports

To open ports on your network, you must first access your router’s configuration page. This is typically done by typing your router’s IP address into a web browser.

The router IP address often has a default value based on the router brand. You can also find it using the following methods:

• Windows: Open Command Prompt and type ipconfig.
• Mac: Go to System Preferences → Network → Advanced → TCP/IP tab.

Once you have your router’s IP address, enter it into your browser to access the configuration page. You will be prompted for a username and password. Default credentials are often admin/admin, but you should confirm this with your router manufacturer.

The next steps depend on your router model, but generally include:

• Locate the Port Forwarding or Applications & Gaming section
• Select Add New Rule
• Configure the required ports

Refer to the IBM Video Streaming documentation for a full list of required ports.

For Windows (PC)

To open a port in Windows Firewall:

1. Open the Control Panel
2. Go to Windows Firewall under the Security section
3. Click Advanced Settings
4. Select Inbound Rules from the left panel
5. Click New Rule
6. Choose Port and click Next
7. Select TCP or UDP (depending on requirements)
8. Enter the specific port number(s)
9. Select Allow the connection
10. Name the rule and click Finish

For IBM Video Streaming, ensure that the selected ports are allowed.

For Mac

Mac firewalls operate differently by allowing access per application rather than by port. If you need to open specific ports, you will need to use the Terminal.

To allow applications through the firewall:

1. Open System Preferences
2. Select Security & Privacy
3. Click the Firewall tab
4. Click Firewall Options
5. Use the + icon to add applications

You will then see a list of applications that are allowed through the firewall and can manage access accordingly.