What Are Ports?

Ports are virtual "doors" that allow data to travel to and from your server. For example:

• Default Ports for Game Servers: Minecraft uses port 25565, while CS:GO commonly uses 27015.

• Custom Ports for Plugins/Mods: Some plugins or mods may require additional ports to function.

The Network feature in Pterodactyl helps you manage these ports efficiently.

Accessing the Network Tab

1. Log In: Visit panel.cptcr.cc and log in.

2. Select Your Server: Click on the server you want to manage.

3. Open the Network Tab: In the left-hand menu, click Network to access the port management interface.

Understanding the Network Tab

The Network tab displays a list of ports currently allocated to your server. Each entry includes:

1. Port Number: The assigned port (e.g., 25565).

2. IP Address: The server's IP to which the port is bound.

3. Notes/Descriptions: A brief description (if added) about the port’s purpose.

4. Actions: Options to edit or remove the port.

Allocating a New Port

Step 1: Add a Port

1. In the Network tab, click the Create Allocation button.

2. Select the IP Address you want to bind the port to (if your server has multiple IPs).

3. Click Allocate Port to automatically assign the next available port.

Step 2: Add Notes (Optional)

• After adding a port, you can click the Edit button to add a note describing its purpose (e.g., "Plugin X port" or "Custom web server").

Managing Allocated Ports

Viewing Current Allocations

• All allocated ports are listed in the Network tab.

• Check this list to see which ports are in use and what they are assigned to.

Removing a Port

1. Locate the port you no longer need.

2. Click the Delete button next to the port.

3. Confirm the deletion.

Warning: Be cautious when removing ports. Deleting a port in use by your server or plugins may cause disruptions.

Practical Use Cases

Example 1: Adding a Port for a Plugin

1. Scenario: You’re installing a Minecraft plugin that requires an additional port (e.g., Dynmap).

2. Steps:

   • Allocate a new port in the Network tab.

   • Note the port number and configure the plugin settings to use this port.

   • Restart your server to apply the changes.

Example 2: Hosting a Custom Application

1. Scenario: You’re running a custom web server or API alongside your game server.

2. Steps:

   • Allocate a port.

   • Bind your application to the allocated port in its configuration.

   • Ensure firewall rules allow access to the port if necessary.

Troubleshooting

Port Not Working

• Cause: The port may not be properly bound to the server or blocked by a firewall.

• Solution:

  1. Double-check your server or plugin settings to ensure the correct port is specified.

  2. Verify with your hosting provider that the port is open and not blocked.

Cannot Allocate Port

• Cause: The server’s port limit has been reached.

• Solution: Contact support to request additional ports or verify if existing unused ports can be removed to free up space.

Connection Issues on Allocated Port

• Cause: External connections may be blocked.

• Solution: Ensure that your firewall or security groups allow traffic on the allocated port.

Tips for Managing Ports

1. Label Your Ports: Always add notes to ports to track their purpose. This is especially helpful for managing multiple ports.

2. Use Only What You Need: Avoid allocating unnecessary ports to minimize clutter and reduce potential security risks.

3. Coordinate with Plugins: Some plugins or mods require specific ports. Refer to the plugin/mod documentation for exact requirements.

Conclusion

The Network feature in Pterodactyl gives you full control over your server’s ports, allowing you to allocate, organize, and manage them effectively. Proper port management ensures your server and plugins run smoothly, while minimizing connection issues.

If you encounter any problems or need additional support, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team!