If you’re running a VPS and find that a specific port (such as 80, 443, 3389, or a custom application port) is blocked, it’s likely being filtered by Windows Defender Firewall. This can prevent applications from listening for incoming connections — such as websites, custom RDP ports, or trading software.
Luckily, you can manually create a rule to allow that port and restore access.
Step-by-Step: Open a Port in Windows Firewall
These instructions apply to Windows Server 2019 and 2022 VPS instances.
1. Open Windows Defender Firewall
Click the Start Menu
Search for: Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security
Open the app
You must have Administrator privileges to modify firewall settings.
2. Create a New Inbound Rule
In the left-hand menu, click Inbound Rules
On the right-hand side, click New Rule…
3. Choose Port-Based Rule
Select Port
Click Next
4. Select Protocol and Enter Port Number
Choose either TCP or UDP (most services use TCP)
In the “Specific local ports” box, enter the port number you want to allow
(e.g., 80 for HTTP, 443 for HTTPS, or your app’s port)
Click Next
5. Allow the Connection
Select: ✅ Allow the connection
Click Next
6. Apply to Network Profiles
You can apply the rule to:
Domain
Private
Public
In most VPS environments, we recommend checking all three. Click Next.
7. Name the Rule
Enter a name that describes the rule
(e.g., “Allow Port 80” or “Custom App Port 5000”)
Click Finish
The rule will now appear in your list of active inbound rules.
✅ Port Is Now Open
Once added, your application or service should be accessible on that port (assuming the application itself is running and listening on that port). You can use tools like netstat, telnet, or online port checkers to verify the open state.
Looking to Use a Custom RDP Port?
If you’re securing your VPS by changing the default RDP port (3389) to something custom, make sure you also create a matching firewall rule — otherwise, you’ll lock yourself out.
🤝 Need Assistance?
If any part of the setup feels unclear, the QuantVPS team is happy to help. If you’d like us to verify your environment from our side, feel free to open a support ticket and get connected with the team: https://www.quantvps.com/