Subnet and PortsPort 8080: HTTP alternate
A common second port for web servers, proxies and test servers (registered as http-alt).
Registry entry
| Port | Protocols | Registered name | IANA description | Assignee | Reference | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8080 | tcp, udp | http-alt | HTTP Alternate (see port 80) | Stephen Casner | n/a |
What it is used for
A common second port for web servers, proxies and test servers (registered as http-alt).
The risk
Admin panels and test servers on this port are often forgotten and left open.
What to do
Restrict it by address, put it behind HTTPS and a login, or close it.
In the registry
Port 8080 is a user port (1024 to 49151), a range where applications register their own numbers. The registry lists one service for this number. Its main entry is http-alt, "HTTP Alternate (see port 80)", registered for tcp, udp.
How to find out whether it is open on your computer
On your own computer or server, ask the operating system which programs are listening for connections, and look for port 8080 in the list. If a program you do not recognise listens on it, find out what it is before you close it. From outside, test only networks that you own or have permission to test: scanning other people's networks can be treated as an attack.
Is port 8080 safe to leave open?
It depends on what is listening and who can reach it. Open only what you need, restrict by address where possible, keep the software updated, and use encryption and strong authentication. The advice above applies to this port.
Does the registered name prove what runs on port 8080?
No. Programs can use any port. The registry tells you what the number was reserved for.
This is an independent guide. It is not connected with IANA, the IETF or any network equipment maker. Address and port data come from the IANA registries as fetched on 14 November 2026; RFC texts were read from rfc-editor.org. Check the originals for anything you rely on.