No. Netcrawler does not use Carrier-Grade NAT (CGNAT) on residential plans. We’ve designed our service to provide an internet experience comparable to what you would receive from providers like Rogers, Bell, or Cogeco. We intentionally avoid CGNAT so customers have a more direct, reliable, and flexible connection. Carrier-Grade NAT is a system some providers use to conserve IPv4 addresses. Instead of assigning each customer a unique public IP address, multiple customers share a single public IP. While this helps providers manage address shortages, it can create limitations for end users.
Why Netcrawler does not use CGNAT
We prioritize performance, flexibility, and compatibility. By assigning customers their own public IP address, we avoid many of the common issues associated with CGNAT.
Benefits of not using CGNAT:
• Easier port forwarding
You can set up port forwarding without restrictions — ideal for gaming, remote access, hosting small services, or smart home configurations.
• Better compatibility with online gaming
Some gaming platforms and consoles experience NAT type restrictions under CGNAT. With a public IP, you’re less likely to run into strict NAT issues.
• Improved remote access
Running VPN servers, accessing home security systems, or remotely connecting to devices works more reliably.
• Fewer connectivity conflicts
Because you’re not sharing an IP with dozens or hundreds of other users, you avoid potential issues tied to shared IP reputation or blocked services.
• More control for power users
Advanced users who run home labs, remote desktops, or specialized applications benefit from a direct public IP setup.
In short, we’ve chosen not to use CGNAT because it provides a cleaner, more reliable experience for our customers — especially in today’s world of remote work, gaming, cloud services, and smart home devices. If you have specific networking needs, our support team is happy to help guide you.