What is port forwarding and when do you need it

Port forwarding tells your router to send outside traffic on a specific port (communication channel) to a device on your home network. You only need it when you want to access services from outside your home, like security cameras. It does have security risks and should only be used when necessary.

A port is like a communication channel on your internet connection. By default, your router blocks all incoming traffic from outside for security. Port forwarding opens a specific channel by telling your router: 'If traffic arrives from outside on port 8080, send it to my computer.' You only need this if you want someone outside your home to reach a service on your home network.