Welcome to the Blizzard Entertainment Networking Help section.

Notes:

• This information is provided as a resource for setting up and testing a network.
• If you are having problems connecting to Battle.net, please make sure you try all of the steps on our Basic Connection Troubleshooting page.
• Should you require additional assistance with your network, please contact the manufacturer of your network hardware.
• Prior to doing anything with your network, make sure you have your operating system installation CDs handy, as they may be required.
• For multiplayer games, all computers need to have the same version installed. Have everyone download and install the latest patch before playing. (http://www.blizzard.com/patches)
• If you would like to submit information to help others get their networks up and running, please email support@blizzard.com with the subject "Networking Assistance".
• Third party help on forwarding router ports can be found at http://www.portforward.com.

Basic Networking:

• Definition of a network and what it can do for you
• Parts needed to configure a network
• How is information sent over the Internet?
• What is Internet Connection Sharing?
• How do Internet connection problems contribute to lag on Battle.net?
• What types of networks are commonly used with Macintosh computers?
• General Network Troubleshooting for Macintosh Computers

Intermediate Networking:

• Installing the network card
• Installing the network card drivers
• Installing the network protocol(s)
• Testing the network using DirectPlay
• Testing the network using IPX
• Testing the network using TCP/IP
• Select an Internet Service Provider (ISP)
• Install your ISP's latest software
• Ways to connect to your Internet Service Provider

Advanced Networking:

• Port Information for Firewalls, Proxies, and Routers
• Suggested settings for BlackICE Firewall
• Configuring Windows XP SP2's Internet Connection Firewall
• Suggested settings for Mac OS X's Firewall
• Suggested settings for ZoneAlarm® Pro Firewall
• Suggested settings for Sygate Personal Firewall Pro to allow access to Battle.net
• Setting up the Linksys router to use port forwarding
• Setting up a D-Link router to play Warcraft III on Battle.net

Security and Warnings:

• Secure your Battle.net account (account password)
• Secure your computer from hackers and scan for viruses (firewall & anti-virus)
• The dangers of third party programs (hacks, cracks, mods, map revealers, etc)
• When connecting to Battle.net, I see other servers than USWest, USEast, Europe, and Asia (FSGS, LAN Party, etc)

Glossary