Overview
To ensure that esports games can compete without network restrictions while also maintaining security, we propose a structured approach using VLAN segmentation, a robust NAT, and dedicated public IP addresses per device. This method ensures that esports traffic is isolated and secure while allowing necessary connections.
Security Objectives
Ensure esports traffic does not interfere with critical school district systems.
Maintain control over the network while allowing necessary connections.
Prevent unauthorized access or misuse of network resources.
Comply with CIPA (Children’s Internet Protection Act) and other relevant regulations.
Configuration Steps
Set Up a Segmented Esports Network
Create a Dedicated VLAN for esports Devices
Assign esports devices (PCs, consoles, and game servers) to a separate VLAN.
This isolates them from student, teacher, wireless, management and administrative networks.
Configure Firewall Rules for esports VLAN
Restrict esports VLAN access to only required gaming services (e.g., Steam, Riot Games, Blizzard, etc.).
Block unnecessary outbound traffic to prevent misuse.
Use an allowlist approach instead of opening ports widely. Each game provides the necessary ports and destinations that need to be allowed.
Use a Separate SSID for Wireless Connections (If Applicable)
If wireless access is needed, create a separate SSID for esports and tie it to the esports VLAN.
Use WPA2-Enterprise authentication for added security.
Assign Dedicated Public IPs to Esports Devices
Providing dedicated IPs per device ensures that each esports system has a consistent external presence, reducing NAT-related issues.
Obtain a Block of Public IP Addresses
Request a block of public IPs from your ISP (e.g., /29, /28, or larger subnet depending on the number of devices).
If your ISP does not provide multiple IPs, consider a cloud-based VPN solution with dedicated IPs (https://nordvpn.com/features/dedicated-ip/).
Configure One-to-One NAT (Static NAT)
On your firewall or router, configure 1:1 NAT rules:
Private IP: 10.10.50.101 → Public IP: 203.0.113.101
Private IP: 10.10.50.102 → Public IP: 203.0.113.102
Private IP: 10.10.50.103 → Public IP: 203.0.113.103
Example Configuration (for Palo Alto firewalls):
set network nat static-rule esports1 from inside to outside source 10.10.50.101 destination any service any translated-source 203.0.113.101
set network nat static-rule esports2 from inside to outside source 10.10.50.102 destination any service any translated-source 203.0.113.102
Configure Outbound NAT Policy
Ensure Outbound NAT uses the assigned public IPs for the esports VLAN.
Some firewalls allow configuring a NAT pool for dynamic assignments.
Assign Dedicated IPs Using MAC Address Binding
For devices like gaming consoles (e.g., Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox), binding public IPs to their MAC addresses ensures consistent NAT behavior.
Reserve a static private IP for each device using DHCP reservations based on MAC addresses.
Configure 1:1 NAT to map the private IP to a dedicated public IP.
Some firewalls allow direct MAC-to-IP NAT mapping instead of relying on DHCP.
Example for a Nintendo Switch:
set network nat static-rule esports_switch from inside to outside source 10.10.50.201 destination any service any translated-source 203.0.113.201
Control and Monitor Network Traffic
Allow Only Required Game Traffic
Use deep packet inspection (DPI) to identify and allow esports traffic without broadly opening ports.
Limit access to gaming-related domains/IPs.
Implement Bandwidth and QoS Policies
Prioritize esports traffic to prevent latency issues.
Limit bandwidth usage to avoid congestion affecting other critical services.
Monitor Logs and Alerts
Use firewall and SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) tools to track traffic patterns.
Set up alerts for unusual or unauthorized activity.
Testing and Implementation
Conduct a small-scale pilot with a few esports machines before full deployment.
Run penetration tests and security assessments.
Work with an esport program lead to ensure the games function correctly without security risks.
Documentation and Communication
Create an esports network policy document for IT staff.
Educate esports participants on network security policies.
Provide IT teams with a clear process for troubleshooting esports network issues.
Optional Enhancements
Failover NAT Pool: In case a public IP goes offline, configure an alternate.
Load Balancing: If multiple ISPs are available, split NAT pools for redundancy.
VPN Split Tunnel: Route gaming traffic through dedicated IPs while keeping normal school traffic separate.
Conclusion
This proven and widely adopted setup delivers an optimized NAT experience for esports while ensuring strict security and network isolation. By leveraging VLAN segmentation, NAT, and dedicated public IPs, schools can provide esports teams with the connectivity they require without exposing the broader network to unnecessary risk.
We are committed to supporting schools in implementing this solution efficiently.