Which port does KERBEROS use for authentication?

KERBEROS uses TCP port 88 for authentication processes. This is the standard port designated for KERBEROS, facilitating its operation as a network authentication protocol designed to provide secure authentication for users and services. KERBEROS operates on both TCP and UDP port 88, but using TCP enhances reliability in certain scenarios, especially in environments where retransmission and ordering are critical.

The other options represent ports designated for different protocols or purposes. For instance, UDP port 123 is used by the Network Time Protocol (NTP) for time synchronization, which is vital for maintaining accurate timestamps across network devices. TCP port 3389 is associated with Microsoft’s Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), which allows remote connections to personal computers. TCP port 636 is used for secure LDAP (Lightweight Directory Access Protocol), enabling secure communication for directory services. Each of these ports serves distinct functions, further emphasizing the specialized role that TCP port 88 plays in the KERBEROS authentication framework.