RDP Network Port Configuration, Security, & Best Practices

What Is an RDP Port?

RDP ports are communication gateways used to establish remote desktop connections. By default, Windows uses Port 3389. While convenient, leaving this port open without added security measures can expose your system to threats.

Why Port 3389 Is a Security Risk

Port 3389 is well-known, and that makes it a magnet for hackers. Brute-force login attempts and automated scans often target this port because of its popularity and default status in Windows.

• It’s unencrypted by default
• It’s used in brute-force attacks
• It’s often scanned by malware bots

Should You Change the Default RDP Port?

Yes. Changing the default port can help avoid basic scanning attacks. Try using ports like 3390, 4000, or another unused port above 1024.

How to Change the RDP Port in Windows

Verify Your New Port

Use these commands in PowerShell to verify the port change:

Get-ItemProperty -Path 'HKLM:\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\WinStations\RDP-Tcp' -name "PortNumber"

To check if it’s listening:

netstat -an | findstr LISTENING

Test connectivity:

Test-NetConnection -ComputerName localhost -Port 3390

Best Practices for Securing RDP

• 🔒 Use a firewall to allow only trusted IPs
• 🔐 Enable Network Level Authentication (NLA)
• 🔁 Require Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
• 📊 Monitor port usage and login attempts
• 📁 Audit RDP access logs regularly
• 🛑 Close RDP ports when not in use

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