How to Change the Default RDP Port for Windows RDP Server

If you use a Windows Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) server to access your computer remotely, you’ve got a handy tool—but its default setting might leave you exposed. In 2025, with remote work still thriving, tweaking the RDP port can add a layer of safety and flexibility. By default, RDP uses port 3389, a number hackers know well. Changing it is like moving your front door to a secret spot—still open, but harder to find. How do you do it? Let’s walk through the steps in a clear, friendly way that anyone can follow.

Why Change the RDP Port?

Every time you connect to your Windows RDP server—say, to work from home—it uses port 3389 to let you in. It’s like a well-known address on the internet. Trouble is, cybercriminals scan for this port constantly, trying to break in. In 2025, with cyber threats up, shifting to a different port—like 49152—makes it less obvious. It’s not foolproof, but it’s a simple trick to throw off casual attackers, giving your server a bit more breathing room.

Step 1: Pick a New Port Number

First, choose your new port—any number between 1024 and 65535 works, but stick to higher ones (like 50000) to avoid clashing with other services. In 2025, it’s smart to check what’s free on your system. Open the Command Prompt (type cmd in the Windows search bar) and run netstat -an | find "LISTEN". This shows ports in use—pick one that’s not listed. Write it down; you’ll need it soon. It’s like picking a new house number nobody’s using on your street.

Step 2: Update the Windows Registry

Now, dive into the settings. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter to open the Registry Editor—don’t worry, it’s safe if you follow along. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\WinStations\RDP-Tcp. Find the PortNumber entry on the right. Double-click it, switch to Decimal mode, and type your new port (e.g., 50000). Click OK, then close the editor. You’ve just told Windows to listen on a new channel—pretty cool, right?

Step 3: Adjust Your Firewall

Your change won’t work yet—Windows Firewall blocks most ports by default. Open the Start menu, search “Windows Defender Firewall,” and click “Advanced Settings.” In the new window, click “Inbound Rules,” then “New Rule” on the right. Choose “Port,” click Next, select “TCP,” and enter your new port (e.g., 50000). Keep clicking Next, allow the connection, name it something like “RDP Custom Port,” and finish. This opens the gate for your new port while keeping others locked.

Step 4: Restart and Test

For the change to stick, restart your computer—save your work first! Once it’s back, test it. On another device, open the Remote Desktop app (search “Remote Desktop” on Windows), enter your server’s IP address followed by a colon and the new port—like 192.168.1.10:50000—then connect. If it works, you’re in! If not, double-check your port number and firewall rule. In 2025, this tweak keeps your RDP server humming with a fresh twist.

A Quick Heads-Up

This boosts security a bit, but it’s not a magic shield—strong passwords and extra login steps (like a phone code) are still musts. Also, if you’re behind a router, you might need to update its port forwarding—check its manual. It’s a small effort for a smoother, safer remote setup.

Why It’s Worth It

Changing your RDP port is a quick win—less obvious to attackers, same remote access you love. In 2025, it’s a smart move for anyone working from anywhere. For a secure cloud-hosted RDP setup, Cyfuture Cloud offers solutions to keep your remote game strong.