Which address identifies a process on a host?
By Kathir | July 28, 2023
In computer networking, the identification and communication between processes on a host rely on various addressing mechanisms. One such crucial component is the port address. Port addresses play a vital role in facilitating the transmission of data between processes on a host. In this article, we will delve into the concept of port addresses, with how an address identifies a process on a host and their role in the overall functioning of network communication.
Which address identifies a process on a host?
The port address is the address that helps to identify a process on a host. A port address is a numerical value that identifies a specific process or service running on a host within a computer network. Each process or service on a host is assigned a unique port address to ensure that data packets are correctly directed to the intended destination.
The Role of Port Addresses in Networking
Endpoint Identification: Port addresses, when combined with IP addresses, form a unique endpoint that distinguishes a specific process or service on a host. Process Differentiation: Multiple processes can run simultaneously on a single host, and port addresses enable the network to differentiate between them.
Data Routing:
Port addresses help network devices, such as routers and switches, route data packets to the correct process on a host.
Types of Port Addresses:
Common Ports:
Port numbers range from 0 to 1023 and are reserved for commonly used services such as HTTP (port 80), FTP (port 21), and SSH (port 22).
Registered Ports:
These are ranging from 1024 to 49151, these port numbers are assigned by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) to specific services or processes upon request.
Dynamic/Private Ports:
These port numbers range from 49152 to 65535 and are used for temporary or ephemeral connections. They are dynamically assigned by the operating system to client applications.
READ: Basic Difference between IMAP vs Pop3 vs SMTP with Port Details
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP):
TCP and Port Addresses:
TCP, one of the core protocols of the Internet, relies on port addresses to establish reliable connections between processes.
Three-Way Handshake:
During the TCP connection establishment, port addresses are used to synchronize communication between the client and server processes.
Session Multiplexing:
TCP allows multiple concurrent sessions between two hosts by using different port addresses to distinguish between them.
Port Address vs. IP Address:
An IP address identifies a specific device (host) on a network, whereas a port address identifies a particular process running on that device. The combination of an IP address and a port address enables the network to precisely identify the process of the Host and the intended process or service.
Also Read About IP Addresses used in Local Host: https://www.seekahost.in/127-0-0-1-localhost-loopback/
Port Address Security Considerations:
Firewalls and Port Filtering:
Port addresses are commonly used in firewalls to filter network traffic based on specific port numbers, helping to protect systems from unauthorized access.
Port Scanning:
Attackers may attempt to discover open ports on a host to identify potential vulnerabilities or gain unauthorized access. Security measures should be in place to prevent such attacks.
Conclusion:
Port addresses are a fundamental component of network communication, enabling the identification and differentiation of processes on a host. They play a vital role in establishing connections, routing data packets, and ensuring the reliable transmission of information. By combining port addresses with IP addresses, networks can precisely locate and communicate with specific processes or services running on hosts. Understanding port addresses and their significance empowers network administrators and engineers to effectively manage and secure their systems, facilitating smooth and efficient communication across the network.