{"id":119250,"date":"2024-12-13T14:48:58","date_gmt":"2024-12-13T19:48:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/jumpcloud.com\/?p=119250"},"modified":"2024-12-20T14:50:03","modified_gmt":"2024-12-20T19:50:03","slug":"rdp-network-port","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/jumpcloud.com\/blog\/rdp-network-port","title":{"rendered":"RDP Network Port Configuration, Security, & Best Practices"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

It\u2019s alarming how so many businesses leave out open invitations for hackers without even realizing it. We\u2019re talking about an open RDP port. For small IT teams, managing remote access securely while keeping things efficient is critical. Mistakes here can expose your network to attacks that no team can afford, or would ever want to afford.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For an IT manager, this guide unpacks everything about RDP ports. From understanding port 3389 and its risks to exploring alternatives and securing your access points, you\u2019ll find practical steps to protect your network. Ready to learn how to enhance your organization\u2019s security? Let\u2019s head right in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Is an RDP Port?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

An RDP port is the entry point for remote desktop connections. It creates a link between two computers and allows one to control the other. The most common RDP port is Port 3389, which comes as the default in Windows systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

IT teams use RDP ports to troubleshoot issues and manage software. Employees rely on them to access office desktops when working remotely. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

RDP ports make it easier to manage and operate thin clients\u2014lightweight computers designed to connect to a server for most of their processing power and data storage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Port 3389: The Default RDP Port<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Port 3389 is the go-to channel for the Remote Desktop Protocol<\/a>. It\u2019s like the highway IT teams rely on to access remote systems. It works well. But here\u2019s the deal: because it\u2019s the default, hackers know it too. Leaving it exposed is like putting up a neon sign for cyberattacks. Nobody wants that, except the hackers, of course!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, let\u2019s break down TCP and UDP. TCP is the reliable one. It delivers every piece of data in the right order, no matter how long it takes. UDP is faster but skips the double-checking. Together, these protocols make RDP work smoothly by balancing speed with accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The risks tied to this default port can\u2019t be ignored. Explore how IT teams can prevent RDP brute-force attacks<\/a> and make these connections safer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Should You Change the Default RDP Port?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Leaving Port 3389 open is like painting a big target on your network. It\u2019s a favorite entry point for criminal hackers. What does that entail? That it\u2019s a risky choice for IT admins who want to keep their systems safe. Let\u2019s take a look at whether this port is secure and whether closing it is a smart move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Is Port 3389 Secure?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

No, not by default. Because port 3389 is the default for Remote Desktop Protocol, it naturally becomes a prime target for criminal hackers. Brute-force attacks, phishing attempts, and other threats are common. It has some known vulnerabilities associated with it, and a connection over port 3389 is not encrypted. Leaving it open puts your system at unnecessary risk. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Should Port 3389 Be Closed?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Absolutely! Keeping it open is a big risk. Closing it helps block a major entry point for attacks. Combine this step with proper firewall rules and other Zero Trust strategies to tighten security without adding complexity. It\u2019s one of the easiest ways to protect your network and ensure peace of mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alternatives and Configuration Changes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sometimes, sticking to the default settings can leave your system vulnerable. Exploring alternatives and learning how to make configuration changes can strengthen your security stance without overcomplicating things.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alternatives to Port 3389<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Switching from Port 3389 is a good way to throw off attackers who target this well-known port. You can opt for alternative ports that are less predictable. For example, ports like 3390 or higher can be set up to handle remote desktop connections. Changing the port creates an extra layer of security and keeps your setup less obvious to threats. However, this isn\u2019t a replacement for robust security measures like firewalls and encryption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Many admins will simply establish an RDP connection over a secure SSH tunnel using port 80 instead. This works well in remote environments where systems are not on the same private network. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to Change the Listening Port from 3389<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Changing the RDP listening port requires a few tweaks to the registry. Follow these steps<\/a> to make the change safely:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Your steps are mostly correct! Here\u2019s a refined version with a few additional considerations to ensure success and avoid potential issues:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. Open the Registry Editor<\/strong>\n