> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.plugins.avenvault.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Local Environment Port Forwarding and Tunnels

> Expose a local Minecraft server to the internet for testing via router port forwarding or tunneling services like Playit.gg and Ngrok.

If you are a developer or server owner testing our plugins on a local home network before deploying to a public host, you may need to expose your server to the internet to verify gameplay with friends.

## Option A: Router Port Forwarding

1. Log into your router's admin panel (typically `192.168.1.1` or `10.0.0.1`).
2. Locate the **Port Forwarding** or **Virtual Servers** section.
3. Create a new rule pointing to the local IPv4 address of your computer.
4. Set both the **Internal Port** and **External Port** to `25565` (or whatever port your server runs on).
5. Set the protocol to **TCP/UDP**.
6. Save and apply. Players can now connect using your public IP address.

## Option B: Tunneling Services (No Port Forwarding Required)

If you cannot access your router or your ISP uses Carrier-Grade NAT (CGNAT), you can use tunneling services to expose your local server.

* [**Playit.gg**](https://playit.gg): A free global proxy specifically designed for gaming. Download the agent, run it alongside your server, and it provides a public IP and port automatically.
* [**Ngrok**](https://ngrok.com/): A generalized tunneling tool.

```bash theme={null}
ngrok tcp 25565
```

<Note>
  Ngrok's free tier assigns a randomized port every time you restart it.
</Note>