Checking open ports on a Windows system is a crucial task for system administrators and network engineers to ensure network security and troubleshoot connectivity issues. An open port is a communication endpoint on a computer that listens for incoming network traffic on a specific port number. Monitoring open ports is essential to identify potential vulnerabilities, control access to resources, and optimize network performance.
There are several methods to check open ports in Windows, each with its own advantages and limitations. One common approach is to use the command-line tool “netstat.” Netstat displays a list of active connections, including the local and remote IP addresses, port numbers, and the state of each connection. This tool provides a comprehensive view of all open ports on the system.