CompTIA Network+ (N10-009)Network OperationsEasy

A network administrator needs to remotely manage a Linux server's command-line interface over an encrypted connection. Which default port should be allowed through the firewall?

  1. A22
  2. B23
  3. C3389
  4. D443
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A. 22

SSH (Secure Shell) uses TCP port 22 by default to provide encrypted remote command-line access, replacing the unencrypted Telnet protocol on port 23.

Why the other options are wrong

  • B. Port 23 is used by Telnet, which is unencrypted.
  • C. Port 3389 is used by RDP for Windows graphical remote desktop access.
  • D. Port 443 is used for HTTPS web traffic, not CLI access.

SSH Port 22

SSH provides encrypted terminal/command-line access to remote devices and servers, using TCP port 22 by default.

  • Replaces insecure Telnet (port 23)
  • Uses TCP port 22
  • Common for managing Linux servers, routers, and switches

Memory trick: SSH = Secure Shell, port 22, the safe twin of Telnet's 23.

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