What Are VPN Ports? All You Need to Know

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become our go-to for online privacy, but ever wondered how they connect so seamlessly? It is all about the right VPN ports. These ports determine how data flows between our devices and VPN servers. 

In this guide, we will delve into what VPN ports are, highlighting their role and helping you understand which ones are crucial for a secure VPN experience. However, let’s first explore the concept of a port before diving into the complexities of VPN ports.

What is a VPN Port?

VPN ports are specific port numbers used by VPN protocols to establish secure connections between a client’s device and a VPN server. Through these dedicated ports, data traverses securely within an encrypted tunnel, safeguarding all information from potential prying eyes.

The default VPN ports are often determined by the VPN protocol in use, but they can be customized in certain setups to bypass restrictions or for enhanced security considerations.  Some of the most commonly associated VPN ports include: port 1194 for OpenVPN UDP, port 443 for OpenVPN TCP, port 1702 for L2TP, port 500 for IPSec and IKEv2, and port 1723 for PPTP.

How Do VPN Ports Work? 

VPN ports play a pivotal role in facilitating VPN connections. They act as designated gateways ensuring secure data transmission between a client and VPN server. When a client’s device sends out network traffic encrypted via a VPN protocol, it uses a specific port number to transmit this data. This encrypted traffic is then channeled through firewalls and other network devices, ensuring it reaches the VPN server securely.

What Ports Do VPNs Use?

The ports used by a VPN depends on the VPN protocol it is using to establish a VPN connection. The ports listed below are the default ports assigned to those VPN protocols. However, VPN providers and administrators can customize these ports based on their specific requirements or for additional security measures. 

VPN Protocol	VPN Port Number (TCP)	VPN Port Number (UDP)
OpenVPN	443	1194
L2TP	Not commonly used with TCP	1701
IKEv2	Not typically used with TCP	500, 4500
PPTP	1723	Not used with UDP
SSTP	443	Not used with UDP
WireGuard	Not fixed (often uses UDP only)	51820

Related Read: TCP vs UDP – Understanding the Difference

Which Ports You Need to Avoid?

No single VPN port can claim absolute security. Instead, we have an array of ports and protocols, each offering varying levels of protection. Naturally, popular VPN ports come equipped with substantial defense mechanisms; quality always demands top-tier measures.

The safeguarding of a port hinges more on the service it runs and its configuration than on the port number itself. Thus, it is crucial to ensure that every service, no matter the port, is optimally secured and frequently updated to stave off potential threats.

Your digital safety should not be compromised. Do your research and choose a VPN service wisely. For instance, PureVPN stands out in the industry, providing unmatched protection. With an extensive network of 6,500+ servers spanning 70 countries, a safe and secure online experience is always within your reach.

What is Port Forwarding?

Port forwarding is a networking technique that redirects data packets through a network’s firewall or router from one point to another, optimizing web communication. By rerouting traffic from one port to another, it enhances both efficiency and speed.

The process entails mapping a specific port or range of ports on a public IP address to a corresponding port or ports on a private device within a local network, such as a computer or server. As a result, external requests made to a specific port on the public IP are directed to a designated device or service within the internal network.

To dive deeper into port forwarding, check out this comprehensive port forwarding guide!

What is a Port?

Ports are virtual communication endpoints in computer networking that allow different programs and services to share data over a network. They play an essential role in facilitating data exchange between network-connected devices. 

Think of ports as designated passageways, through which data can enter or exit a computer system. Each port has a unique number, ranging from 0 to 65535, which helps differentiate the types of communication happening over a network. 

What is a Port Number?

Each port on your device is assigned a unique number by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) to distinguish and manage various tasks. These port numbers simplify the process of understanding the purpose of each port and directing data appropriately on your device. Such unique identifiers allow devices to handle multiple data types and manage network traffic efficiently.

For example, port 444 is typically associated with secure HTTPS connections, ensuring the safe transmission of online transactions and other sensitive data. Meanwhile, DNS services use port 53 for domain name resolution. Here are some common port numbers and the processes they facilitate:

Port Number	Process
20	FTP Data Transfer
21	FTP Command Control
22	SSH (Secure Shell)
23	Telnet
25	SMTP (Mail Sending)
80	HTTP (Web Browsing)
110	POP3 (Mail Retrieval)
119	NNTP (Usenet Newsgroups)
123	NTP (Network Time Protocol)
143	IMAP (Internet Message Access)

Frequently Asked Questions 

Does VPN port matter?

Yes, the VPN port matters because it determines the pathway through which data travels between your device and the VPN server. The choice of port can affect both the security and reliability of your VPN connection, as well as its ability to bypass firewalls or network restrictions.

What are good ports to use with OpenVPN?

For OpenVPN, commonly recommended ports are UDP 1194, which is the official OpenVPN port, and TCP 443. UDP 1194 is known for speed and is the default OpenVPN setting, whereas TCP 443 is advantageous for bypassing firewalls as it’s the same port used by secure HTTPS traffic.

What port is IPSec?

IPSec uses multiple ports for its operation. The most important ones are UDP 500 for the initial key exchange, UDP 4500 for NAT traversal, and IP protocol numbers 50 and 51 for ESP (Encapsulating Security Payload) and AH (Authentication Header) respectively

What port is PPTP?

PPTP (Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol) primarily uses TCP port 1723 for the control path (setting up and managing the VPN connection), and it uses the GRE (Generic Routing Encapsulation) protocol, which is IP protocol number 47, for the data path (tunneling the data packets).

Which ports are used for VPN?

VPN ports vary based on the protocol in use. Commonly, OpenVPN uses port 1194, L2TP uses port 1701, IPsec/IKEv2 uses port 500, and PPTP uses port 1723.

What is port 443 used for? 

Port 443 is traditionally designated for HTTPS traffic, ensuring secure web browsing. Many VPNs also utilize port 443 for secure, encrypted connections, as it’s less likely to be blocked by firewalls.

How do I find my VPN port?

You can find your VPN port within the settings or configuration menu of your VPN client. Alternatively, check the documentation or support section of your VPN provider’s website.

Which VPN allows you to open ports?

PureVPN offers an add-on that enables users to open specific ports for enhanced online activities. This feature bolsters online gaming, remote access, and P2P file sharing. With PureVPN’s port forwarding add-on, users can streamline their online experiences while retaining security.

Final Word

Understanding the world of VPN ports is essential for a safer online experience. These ports are the gateways for your data’s secure journey. However, it is crucial to remember that while some ports offer solid protection, others might have vulnerabilities. Always prioritize choosing a VPN provider that values your online security, ensuring you remain private and protected.