What’s the Difference Between Port 80 and Port 22
The two computer networking ports function differently from each other. The default port for HTTP traffic is Port 80, which enables standard web browsing and unencrypted data exchange between web servers and clients. The standard port for SSH (Secure Shell) connections is Port 22, which enables encrypted communication for remote server access and secure file transfers.
The primary distinction between these ports exists in their security features because Port 80 sends data without encryption, which makes it susceptible to interception, but Port 22 protects data through strong encryption. Websites use Port 80 as their public interface, but Port 22 operates with authentication requirements that limit access to authorized users.
What is Port 80? (HTTP Port)
Port 80 is the default port for HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol), which powers unencrypted web traffic. When you visit a website without https://, it typically uses Port 80.
Key Uses of Port 80
- Serves unencrypted web pages (HTTP)
- Used by web servers(Apache, Nginx)
- Essential for basic website access
Security Risks of Port 80
- No encryption: Data is sent in plaintext (vulnerable to sniffing)
- Prone to attacks: DDoS, MITM (Man-in-the-Middle), and injection attacks
- Often targeted by hackers due to its open nature
What is Port 22? (SSH Port)
Port 22 is the default port for SSH (Secure Shell), a protocol for secure remote server access. It encrypts all traffic, making it far safer than Port 80.
Key Uses of Port 22
- Secure remote server logins (Linux/Unix servers)
- Encrypted file transfers (SFTP/SCP)
- Tunneling and port forwarding
Why is Port 22 More Secure Than Port 80?
- End-to-end encryption (protects against eavesdropping)
- Requires authentication (username/password or SSH keys)
- Less vulnerable to common web-based attacks
Port 80 vs Port 22: Key Differences Compared
| Feature | Port 80 (HTTP) | Port 22 (SSH) |
| Protocol | HTTP (Unencrypted) | SSH (Encrypted) |
| Security | Unsecured (plaintext) | Highly Secure (encrypted) |
| Default Use | Web Traffic | Remote Server Access |
| Authentication | None (public access) | Required (SSH keys/passwords) |
| Vulnerabilities | DDoS, MITM, Sniffing | Brute-force attacks (if weak passwords) |
When to Use Port 80 vs Port 22?
Use Port 80 When:
- Hosting a basic website (though HTTPS on Port 443 is better)
- Running internal services where encryption isn’t critical
Use Port 22 When:
- Managing remote servers securely
- Transferring sensitive files (via SFTP/SCP)
- Needing encrypted command-line access
Final Thoughts
The operational characteristics and security features of Port 80 (HTTP) and Port 22 (SSH) differ substantially when used for network communications. The fundamental role of Port 80 for unencrypted web traffic does not make up for its security vulnerabilities when dealing with sensitive information. Port 22 enables security to secure remote access through encryption, yet organizations need to establish appropriate security protocols to protect against brute-force attacks.
Organizations should minimize Port 80 exposure through HTTPS (Port 443) implementation alongside key-based authentication and fail2ban for SSH security. Modern network infrastructure security and efficiency depend on continuous monitoring and appropriate firewall configurations and protocol updates to defend against emerging threats.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Port 80 and Port 22
What is Port 80 used for?
Port 80 handles HTTP traffic for web browsing. Web servers use Port 80 to send unencrypted web pages to client browsers. This port enables standard web communication between servers and users.
Is Port 22 more secure than Port 80?
Port 22 provides more security than Port 80. Port 22 uses SSH encryption to protect data transfers. Port 80 transmits data without encryption, making it vulnerable to interception.
Can I change Port 22 to another port?
System administrators can change Port 22 to a different port number. This change enhances security by avoiding default port scanning. The new port number must be specified in SSH client configurations.
Why is Port 80 insecure?
Port 80 transfers data in plain text format. Attackers can intercept and read data sent through Port 80. This port lacks encryption protection for data transmission.
Do I need both Port 80 and Port 22 open?
Different services require different ports. Port 80 enables web browsing access. Port 22 allows secure remote server management. Most servers need both ports for full functionality.
How can I secure Port 80 traffic?
Administrators can redirect Port 80 traffic to Port 443 (HTTPS). SSL/TLS certificates enable encrypted web traffic. Web application firewalls add extra protection to Port 80 connections.
Can Port 80 and Port 22 be used together?
Yes, a web server can use Port 80 for HTTP, while Port 22 handles SSH access.
Should I close Port 80 and only use Port 22?
If you don’t need HTTP, closing Port 80 improves security. But if running a website, redirect to HTTPS (Port 443) instead.
Priya Mervana
Verified Web Security Experts
Priya Mervana is working at SSLInsights.com as a web security expert with over 10 years of experience writing about encryption, SSL certificates, and online privacy. She aims to make complex security topics easily understandable for everyday internet users.
