Networking
UPnP versus static maps: convenience against clarity
UPnP lets applications punch temporary holes in your edge — great for couch co-op, risky for always-on servers you forgot about. NIST’s broader guidance on home router hygiene (SP 800-124 rev.1) is a sober read if you want standards-language framing: NIST SP 800-124 Rev. 1.
When UPnP is fine
- Ephemeral LAN parties with teardown afterward.
- Lab consoles where you accept churn.
When static maps win
- Public communities with scheduled maintenance.
- Games that need predictable UDP paths and firewall documentation.
- Any host you expect another human to debug at 3am.
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