Opening Port 7777/Router questions

[Atgod88]

I have a question about routers, I am not very savvy when it comes to this sort of thing so I probably wont understand big broad terms, explaining them would be nice, I just need help.

Information for question:

I own Unreal Tournament 3 and support says the problem i have can be fixed by opening port 7777 on my router. I know nothing of what ports do or anything. Note that I am not trying to host servers, I just want to connect to them.

My question:

Would opening port 7777 cause any problems such as viruses and shit if I open it with the intention of using it to find and connect to UT3 servers, I have updated norton anti-virus and rarely have problems but I also don't screw with my connections. What is the risk of opening ports or particularly port 7777, is it like opening a door for viruses where my anti-virus wont interfere or what?

If you have any information about port 7777, opening ports/routers, risks, or any specifics on UT3 and opening ports. Please post any information, my google searches don't seem to be conclusive.

Thanks guys.

[Headshot777]

Try turning off your firewall.

[Tykwa]

Well if your on vista/7 always try running as administrator first.

[Atgod88]

I'm running Windows XP SP3 and am the only user and admin at that on my system, I have complete control of everything I think.

Thanks for the responses so far but I would still like to know more about opening ports and what not.

Thanks again.

[Tykwa]

If I could remember correctly, go into your connections, and there should be menues n shit for ports, If I still had XP ( like yesterday ) I would probably show you exactly, but ive total forgotten already, I just know theres a way to do it, Ive had to open ports for WoW multiple times, but I can't remember where to go.

[EyeLovePoozy]

Chances are pretty slim that you will find the help you need in this forum buddy.

Try these guys over here, they're pretty knowledgeable about all that stuff and I'm sure they'd be glad to oblige you.

[Alpha-Critik]

Unless there are any port 7777 specific viruses or trojans out there, chances are you won't be infected if you have a decent anti-virus.