Is port 42 (WINS / nameserver) dangerous?

Port 42 is classified as medium risk. It is commonly exposed but consider using encrypted alternatives where available and monitor activity.

Should port 42 be open on my firewall?

Port 42 can be open but should be monitored closely. Keep the service updated and prefer encrypted alternatives where available.

What transport protocol does port 42 use?

Port 42 (WINS / nameserver) uses the TCP/UDP transport protocol and falls under the DNS category.

:42 (TCP/UDP)

WINS / nameserver

Medium Risk

TCP/UDP — DNS

Port Overview

Port Number 42

Service Name WINS / nameserver

Transport Protocol TCP/UDP

Category DNS

Security Risk Medium

Port Range Well-Known (0-1023)

What is Port 42?

Originally assigned as the Host Name Server protocol on ARPANET, port 42 was later repurposed by Microsoft for Windows Internet Name Service (WINS), which resolves NetBIOS names to IP addresses. WINS is a legacy name resolution system superseded by DNS and Active Directory. Exposure of WINS on the internet poses reconnaissance and potential exploitation risks.

TCP/UDP DNS

Security Considerations

Port 42 (WINS / nameserver) is classified as medium risk. While this service is commonly exposed, consider using encrypted alternatives where available.

Recommendation: Keep the service updated. Monitor logs for unusual activity.

Related Ports — DNS

53 DNS 101 NIC Host Name 202 AT-NBP 206 AT-ZIS 558 SDNSKMP 634 GINAD 853 DNS over TLS 953 RNDC

Related Terms

A Record AAAA Record Authoritative DNS Server CNAME Record DNS DNS Resolver