When using a Linux server, Ubuntu is widely known and popular due to its user-friendly and easy-to-use nature. During usage, you may need to open ports on Ubuntu for various reasons. This article will explain the different scenarios and methods for opening ports on Ubuntu.

Scenarios for Opening Ports on Ubuntu

  • Running various network services: By opening ports, external users can directly interact or communicate with your Ubuntu system over the network. You can run various network services, including web servers, mail servers, FTP servers, etc.
  • Game servers: By opening game ports, other players can participate and access your game.
  • Remote access: After opening ports on Ubuntu, you can remotely access and control the system using SSH clients.
  • File sharing: In addition to remote access, opening ports allows you to set up file sharing functionality on Ubuntu, enabling access to your files and folders from other computers.

Steps for Opening Ports on Ubuntu

To open ports on Ubuntu, you can follow the steps below:

    1. Open the terminal command line mode.
    2. Enter the following command to view the currently opened ports:

$ sudo ufw status

    1. Enter the following command to open a port. For example, to open port 80:

$ sudo ufw allow 80

    1. Restart the firewall:

$ sudo ufw reload

    1. Finally, check if the port is open. The status should be displayed as “active”:

$ sudo ufw status

However, it is important to note that while opening ports brings additional functionality, it also increases the security risks to the server system. Without proper configuration, it may expose the system to unauthorized access and malicious attacks from hackers, which is a situation that no business or individual wants to face. Therefore, when opening ports, it is crucial to deploy network security defenses such as firewalls and authentication measures.