If canyouseeme.org shows false, then the problem is with your portforwarding and not Core.
You're right... I found a workaround of some sort and I'll probably stick with it for the time being [credit goes to "this video"]:Note: It doesn't work with a VPN connection [if you try it, you need to restart your windows to get it back to work].
- Steps:
- Download uTorrent
- Option > Preferences > Connections > Listening Port > 8333 > Apply > Ok.
- Keep it open!
It's rather unusual solution, but i guess as long as it works. Few thoughts,
1. I would recommend you to use qBitTorrent since it's open source and doesn't have ads.
2. Can you download/upload something on uTorrent when Bitcoin Core has incoming connection?