How to Configure Your Router to Open Port 21 for FTP Server

For your FTP server to be reachable from the internet, you need to configure your router to open TCP/IP port number 21 to allow connections to your PC.

The instructions to forward a port will vary from router-to-router, but below you’ll find the steps to configure most routers. (For more specific instructions to forward TCP/IP ports, you should check your router’s manufacturer support website.)

1. Use the Windows key + R keyboard shortcut to open RUN and type CMD, Press Enter.
   
2. Type the following command: ipconfig and press Enter.
   
3. Make note of the Default Gateway IP address, which is the IP address of your router. Typically, it’s private address in the 192.168.x.x range. For example, 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.2.1.
4. Open your default web browser.
   
5. On the address bar enter the router’s IP address and press Enter.
   
6. Sign-in with your router credentials.
   
7. Find the Port Forwarding section — usually you’ll find this feature under the WAN or NAT settings.
   
8. Create a new port forwarding that includes the following information:
   
   • Service name: You can use any name. For example, FTP-Server.
     
   • Port range: You must use port 21.
     
   • PC’s TCP/IP address: Open Command Prompt, type ipconfig, and the IPv4 address is your
     PC’s TCP/IP address.
     
   • Local TCP/IP port: You must use port 21.
     
   • Protocol: TCP.
     
9. Apply the new changes and save the new router configurations.

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