Use FaceTime and iMessage behind a firewall

FaceTime and iMessage behind a firewall

You can use FaceTime and iMessage on most networks. Some networks at schools and companies use a firewall for security. These block certain types of internet traffic as extra security. Internet traffic is only allowed through certain ports. You may encounter problems if you want to use FaceTime or iMessage, but fortunately this is easy to check and solve, as you can read in this tip.

Firewall: only through certain ports

FaceTime is a service from Apple that allows you to make video calls via your wireless network. This works fine with most WiFi networks, but if you are behind a firewall, it can still cause problems. Calling via Skype can also sometimes be blocked.

Firewalls work with network ports that you can open or close. When using FaceTime, certain ports may be closed, causing the service to not work. If you manage such a firewall yourself, you can adjust this, but with a centrally managed network you will often have to rely on the network administrator, who must open the ports for you.

These are the ports you need:

Depending on the router and network configuration, other ports may also be required to receive and transmit video. Some router features may prevent FaceTime and iMessage from working properly. This concerns, for example, port mapping, SIP dropping or dynamically opening media ports.

You can find out how to adjust this in the manual of your router, firewall or security software, as this varies per case. Apple also has a separate support article available about this.

More tips about your wireless network

You can read more tips about networking here:

• What is WPA3? Everything about the improved security of your Wi-Fi network
• This way you can share your Wi-Fi network super quickly, without sharing your password
• Restore network settings on iPhone and iPad: this is how you solve network problems
• This is how you quickly connect to Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth devices