HTTPS Port

[Rachel S]

Understanding What Is HTTPS port and How to Use It.

[zayn_william]

HTTPS ports serve as dedicated network ports, enabling secure data transmission over the internet through SSL/TLS encryption. Ports 443 and 8443 are prevalent examples.

Differences Between SSL and HTTPS Port:
HTTPS relies on a web server's SSL certificate, which is a key component for encrypted connections. SSL validates user identity but is being replaced by more efficient TLS. Unlike HTTP, only HTTPS guarantees secure data transfer. Verify SSL via HTTPS in the URL and padlock icon.

Let's talk about the frequently used HTTPS ports: 443 and 8443.

Port 443
TCP port 443, the default HTTPS protocol acknowledged by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), encrypts data exchange between web servers and browsers. This port secures network traffic packets before transmission, utilizing an SSL/TLS certificate to convert text into encrypted data, thwarting eavesdropping and interception.

Port 8443
Port 8443 is an alternate HTTPS port, essential for the Apache Tomcat web server's SSL text service and HTTPS Client Authentication protocol. This port facilitates encrypted traffic by generating a user's authentication key pair, securely stored in the browser. The server confirms the private key's authenticity, establishing a secure connection.

Why Use an HTTPS Port:

Sensitive information protection: SSL offers sensitive information protection by encrypting and authenticating data during transfer, ensuring security and thwarting man-in-the-middle attacks.

Keeps online transactions secure: E-commerce sites need SSL certificates for encrypting financial data and meeting Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS).

Improves customers' trust and conversion rate: HTTPS boosts visitor trust in data security, encouraging return visits.

Enable Ports 443 and 8443 on Windows
Step 1: Access the Control Panel, choose System & Security, and click on Windows Defender Firewall.

Step 2: Select the advanced settings options

Step 3: The Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security window will appear. Choose Inbound Rules and click on New Rule under the Actions tab.

Step 4: Upon opening the New Inbound Rule Wizard window, opt for "Port" and proceed by clicking "Next."

Step 5:Choose "TCP" in the "Does this rule apply to TCP or UDP?" section, and then enter the port numbers 443 and 8443 beside "Specific local ports," separated by a comma. When done, click "Next."

Step 6:Pick the "Allow the connection" choice and proceed by clicking "Next."

Step 7: Check the boxes for Domain, Private, and Public profiles, then click "Next."

Step 8: Finally, assign a name to the rule and describe if desired. Then, choose "Finish."
Enable Ports 443 and 8443 on CentOS
Step 1: Open the Terminal and log in as root user.

Step 2: To open the iptables configuration file, use the given command
sudo vi /etc/sysconfig/iptables

To open the iptables configuration file, use the given command:
-A INPUT -m state --state NEW -m tcp -p tcp --port 443 -j ACCEPT
-A INPUT -m state --state NEW -m tcp -p tcp --port 8443 -j ACCEPT

Step 3: Save and exit the file by pressing Control + C, followed by Y, then confirming with Enter to apply the changes.

Step 4: Restart the iptables service by running the command below:
sudo systemctl restart iptables