What Is the Default MySQL Port Number?

MySQL is a well-known Open Source SQL Data Management System. It was designed, developed, and is being managed by Oracle. It allows users to access, retrieve, and manipulate data stored in a database.

To connect to your MySQL database or to make a connection between an application and your database, you’ll require an introductory level understanding of MySQL port, alongside other information that may prove to be helpful to you as a user.

This article provides us with what the default MySQL port is, how to check for it, and how to change it for security reasons.

What is Default MySQL Port Number?

MySQL automatically uses port 3306. The MySQL protocol connects to the 3306 port number to communicate with MySQL clients and tools like “mysqldump.” Transmission Control Protocol, or TCP, is used.

You can use phpMyAdmin or a direct connection to access your database if you have a secure WordPress host. In settings where large data is used, this would be helpful. Hosts made for WordPress for schools automatically optimizes the database of your WordPress website every week.

While the default number is used by most applications, several factors can warrant changes. Firstly, the port number could be changed for safety purposes. It might also change because the database port number is already in use by another program. 

Vulnerabilities

Over the years, there seem to have been security flaws and MySQL errors associated with opening the port.

Normally, port 3306 shouldn’t be opened because it could expose the server to malevolent third parties. The crazy reality is that research has shown that an open default port doesn’t just expose the user in question, but many more servers than necessary. There are numerous safe alternatives to accessing port 3306 if the user needs to connect to the database remotely.

Using an SSH tunnel is one safe alternative. Also, if port 3306 must be opened, the user must be careful to limit the IP addresses that can access it to prevent the connection from being penetrated by malicious hosts. Although the default port for MySQL is 3306, the MySQL service may not always use that port. So, you can change the port number to another one.

Check MySQL Port Number Used by MySQL Server

There are a few methods you can adopt in trying to find out what port your MySQL server is listening on. You can check the port number when you have made a connection to the MySQL server. You simply run the code;

SHOW VARIABLES LIKE ‘port’;

In Windows devices, you can find the MySQL port number from the settings. Follow these easy steps;

• Enter the “my.ini” file’s location. It will be in the location where MySQL was installed. An example is C: Program Files\MySQL\MySQL Server 8.0.
• Use Notepad to access the.ini settings file.
• Locate the MySQL port that Windows is listening on.

How to Change the Default MySQL Port Number?

Changing your MySQL port from the default number is important for the longevity and safe transfer of your sensitive information. Normal ports may be secure, but it’s only for a short period. In addition to upgrading the port, it would be advantageous to put other security measures in place. If the standard 3306 port is already in use, it’s another indication that you might need to switch.

Various MySQL Ports.

Here are a few easy steps you can follow;

1. Open the “my.ini” file in the MySQL installation directory.
2. The port with the default number 3306 will be shown.
3. Replace port 3306 with the appropriate number.
4. Save the modifications in Step 4 so that the “my.ini” file is preserved.
5. Restart your MySQL server to put your current modifications into effect.

The moment you turn on your MySQL, it will begin to listen in on the desired port number.

Various MySQL Port

1. TCP port 3306

As a default, MySQL uses port 3306 to connect clients to the MySQL server. The communication on this port is often encrypted. Data on this port must always transfer from client to server unless the X protocol is used.

2. TCP port 33060

Port 33060 uses encrypted data to communicate between the MySQL client and server. The port is also used for data transfer except if the default 3306 is used.

3. TCP/IP port 33062 (default)

The client and the server communicate using the port in an encrypted fashion. This kind of MySQL port is configured specially to support administrative connections. The MySQL administrative interface enables tasks like managing users, configuring servers, analyzing logs, and conducting export and import.

4. TCP/IP port 33061

Shell ports include 3306/TCP, 33061/TCP, and 33060/TCP. Port 33061/TCP is required to run InnoDB Cluster. This port is encrypted. When configuring an InnoDB Cluster, its main purpose is to check a server.

Conclusion

Port 3306 is the default MySQL port number for communicating between MySQL clients and tools. This port should be changed for security reasons since it exposes the server to malicious hackers. By making simple edits to the my.ini file located in the MySQL installation directory, the port number can be changed. Additionally, it’s critical to restrict the IP addresses that can access the port and to consider employing secure substitutes like SSH tunnels or anonymous server hosting.