Vonage and MSN Port Usage

Vonage and MSN Port Usage

Abstract:

Adding Voice over IP (VoIP) and Instant Messaging to a home is normally a simple process. The goal is often to increase communication while reducing telecommunications bills. Occasionally, there are problems with access, which required troubleshooting or more advanced features are desired. A user may need to understand the protocols, in order to better maintain security, and limit scope to attacks by viruses and worms.

Vonage Voice Adapters

Vonage is a low-cost VoIP phone provider service. Normally, not much needs to be done, except plug in a device. Here are the protocols which are required.

Service	TCP	UDP	Notes
DNS		53	Name Resolution
TFTP	21,69,2400		Firmware Upgrade
HTTP	80		Configuration
SIP		5061	pre-2005 Vonage devices
RTP		10000-20000	RTP (Voice) traffic

When a call is made, a random port between 10000 and 20000 is used for RTP (Voice) traffic. If any of these ports are blocked, you may experience one way or no audio.

Microsoft MSN and Windows Messenger

Microsoft provides various tools like MSN and Windows Messenger, but in order to get full functionality, occasionally users must forward ports through firewalls and expand exposure to worms and viruses. Use very carefully.

Service	TCP	UDP	Notes
Windows Messenger - voice		2001 - 2120 6801, 6901	Computer to Phone
MSN Messenger - file transfers	6891 - 6900		Allows up to 10 simultaneous transfers
MSN Messenger - voice	6901	6901	Voice communications computer to computer.
MSN Messenger text	1863		Instant text messages

The ports may be helpful when you want to limit vulnerabilities within your environment to unfriendly viruses and worms.