Can't connect remotely (ZTE+Deco)

[Mexflix 1]

Noob running from Plex after their remote-access paywall.  Tried Jellyfin but figured it wasn't remote friendly, thought Emby was, now I'm thinking they work on the same principle.

The ZTE router/modem was given by my ISP. I added a Deco Mesh to get better Wi-Fi upstaris.

- I already tried connecting with IP and EmbyConnect

- Both sliders on "Network" are on: (1) Allow remote connections (2) Enable automatic port mapping

- Modem/router's (ZTE) UPnP is ON

- Tried manual port forward on ZTE router (with UPnP both ON and OFF)

- Tried manual port forward on Deco, but after chosing my MacBook's IP, the ports gray out.

- Tried connecting MacBook to both main router (ZTE) and Deco.

- Tried turning ZTE's firewall off/on

 

+ Pretty sure my ISP (Megacable Mexico) assigns dynamic IP's to all users here in Mexico, however (ignorant thought incoming) during my troubleshoot IP's didn't change.

+ ZTE modem/router is NOT on bridge mode, but I can do it (need to call ISP for a superadmin password).

 

Thoughts?

 

 

 

 

 

[Luke 42077]

@Mexflixhave you checked to see if your ISP is using a CGNat?

https://www.purevpn.com/blog/how-to-check-whether-or-not-your-isp-performs-cgnat/

If they are then you will need either a VPN or TailScale for remote access.

[Mexflix 1]

Thanks Luke, sorry for the late response.

My ISP is (was) using a CGNat, but I was able to subscribe to a Public IP for $5-ish a month.

After that I was still having trouble setting up the Port Forwarding, but after some trial and errors here's how I did it in case it helps someone in the future.

 

Remember, I'm using my ISP's router (NOT in bridge mode), and a TP Link Deco Mesh setup.

I had to turn off uPNP, and open the 8096 port to my Deco's IP, not my server (Macbook).