Select TCP or UDP (usually TCP for applications). Under "Specific local ports," enter the port number (e.g., 80 , 3389 , or 25565 ). Action: Select Allow the connection .
Use netstat -abno in an Administrator Command Prompt to see which executable ( -b ) is using which port ( -o for PID).
Right-click the and select Terminal (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin) . Execute the following cmdlet to view all TCP connections: powershell Get-NetTCPConnection -State Listen Use code with caution.
Only when an application isn't listed should you manually open a port: windows 11 open ports
Before modifying your firewall settings, you should audit your system to see which ports are already active and listening for connections. Method A: Using Command Prompt (netstat)
The output will display columns for Local Address, Foreign Address, State (such as LISTENING or ESTABLISHED ), and the PID.
But easier: use Get-NetTCPConnection – it’s built on the same API. Select TCP or UDP (usually TCP for applications)
Right-click the button and select Terminal (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin) . Execute the primary command to see open listening ports: powershell
Connection-oriented. It ensures all data packets arrive accurately and in order (e.g., web browsing, email).
Connectionless. It streams data quickly without verifying packet delivery or order. This speed makes UDP ideal for real-time applications like video conferencing, live streaming, and online gaming. Common Port Classifications Use netstat -abno in an Administrator Command Prompt
The numerical ID of the software running that specific port. Method B: Using PowerShell (Get-NetTCPConnection) For a cleaner, filterable overview, use PowerShell: Right-click the Start Menu and choose Terminal (Admin) .
TCPView from Microsoft Sysinternals shows a live updating list of all endpoints, including remote addresses, state, and process. Far superior to netstat for dynamic analysis.
If you need help troubleshooting a specific network issue, let me know: What are you trying to host? Are you getting an error message when trying to connect? What brand/model of router are you using?