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UPnP Support

Bitcoin Core removed UPnP support in version 28. Bitcoin Knots restores this functionality via the restore_upnp patch.

What is UPnP?

Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) allows your node to automatically configure port forwarding on compatible routers, making your node reachable from the internet without manual configuration.

Enabling UPnP

bitcoin.conf
upnp=1

Or via command line:

bitcoind -upnp

GUI Option

UPnP can be enabled in Qt settings:

  • Settings → Options → Network → "Map port using UPnP"

Security Considerations

warning

UPnP can expose your node to the internet. Ensure you understand the implications:

  • Your IP address becomes visible
  • Port 8333 will be open to the internet
  • Some routers have UPnP vulnerabilities

NAT-PMP Alternative

Knots also supports NAT-PMP as an alternative to UPnP:

bitcoin.conf
natpmp=1

NAT-PMP is enabled by default via the def_natpmp_true patch.

Checking Port Status

Verify your node is reachable:

bitcoin-cli getnetworkinfo | jq '.localaddresses'

See Also