Why does the cloud server need to open ports? How to open a port?

Cloud servers need to open ports to allow communication between the server and external devices or services. Ports act as entry points for specific types of network traffic, such as HTTP (port 80), HTTPS (port 443), SSH (port 22), or custom applications. Without opening the required ports, the server cannot receive or send data for those services, effectively blocking access.

For example, if you host a website on a cloud server, you must open port 80 (HTTP) or 443 (HTTPS) to allow users to access the site. Similarly, if you use SSH for remote management, port 22 must be open.

To open a port on a cloud server:

1. Access the security group/firewall settings: Most cloud platforms provide a security group or firewall configuration panel. For example, in Tencent Cloud, you can go to the CVM (Cloud Virtual Machine) console, select your instance, and navigate to Security Group settings.
2. Create or modify a rule: Add a new inbound rule specifying the port (e.g., 80), protocol (TCP/UDP), and allowed IP ranges (e.g., 0.0.0.0/0 for all IPs or a specific subnet).
3. Apply the changes: Save the rule, and the port will be open for traffic.

In Tencent Cloud, you can manage ports via Security Groups under the CVM console, ensuring secure and flexible network access control.