Which port number is specifically assigned to HTTPS?

HTTPS, which stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure, is the protocol used for secure communication over a computer network. It is essential for ensuring data integrity and confidentiality when transmitting information, such as online transactions or sensitive data.

Port 443 is the standard port number that is specifically assigned to HTTPS traffic. By using this dedicated port, web browsers and servers can efficiently distinguish between regular HTTP traffic (which uses port 80) and secure HTTPS traffic, allowing for the appropriate handling of each type of communication. This separation is crucial for ensuring that secure connections are properly established, using protocols such as TLS (Transport Layer Security) or SSL (Secure Sockets Layer).

Other port numbers mentioned, such as 80, 21, and 25, are associated with different types of protocols (HTTP, FTP, and SMTP, respectively). Understanding these port assignments is vital for network configuration, troubleshooting, and security measures, making it clear why port 443 is recognized as the standard for HTTPS traffic.