Port 8500: Consul

Port 8500 is the HTTP API and web UI port for HashiCorp Consul, a service discovery and health-checking tool used to keep track of what services are running where. Consul also uses separate ports for DNS and internal cluster gossip.

TCPInfrastructure & orchestrationUnencrypted by default
Port number8500
ServiceHashiCorp Consul HTTP API / UI
ProtocolTCP
CategoryInfrastructure & orchestration
Default encryptionNo
Security note. Port 8500 is not encrypted by default. Restrict it to trusted networks, or use an encrypted alternative where one exists, to avoid exposing credentials and data in transit.

Frequently asked questions

What is port 8500 used for?

Port 8500 is the HTTP API and web UI port for HashiCorp Consul, a service discovery and health-checking tool used to keep track of what services are running where. Consul also uses separate ports for DNS and internal cluster gossip.

Is port 8500 TCP or UDP?

Port 8500 (Consul) uses TCP.

Is port 8500 secure?

Port 8500 is not encrypted by default. Where possible, use an encrypted alternative or tunnel it over TLS or a VPN.

Should I open port 8500 on my firewall?

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