Port 22: SSH

Port 22 is SSH, the encrypted way to open a remote shell, tunnel traffic, and run SFTP or SCP file transfers. It is the default for secure remote administration of Linux and network devices.

TCPRemote access EncryptedIANA assigned
Port number22
ServiceSecure Shell / SFTP / SCP
ProtocolTCP
CategoryRemote access
Default encryptionYes (TLS/SSH)

Frequently asked questions

What is port 22 used for?

Port 22 is SSH, the encrypted way to open a remote shell, tunnel traffic, and run SFTP or SCP file transfers. It is the default for secure remote administration of Linux and network devices.

Is port 22 TCP or UDP?

Port 22 (SSH) uses TCP.

Is port 22 secure?

Yes. Port 22 carries encrypted traffic by default, so data in transit is protected.

Should I open port 22 on my firewall?

Only if you specifically need SSH. Expose it to the smallest set of trusted sources, and never open database or Windows-service ports to the whole internet.