Port 1194 (OpenVPN) — What It Is and How to Use It

Port 1194 is the default and most commonly used port for OpenVPN, an open-source software application that implements virtual private network (VPN) techniques for creating secure point-to-point or site-to-site connections. It's crucial for establishing encrypted tunnels over untrusted networks, enabling secure remote access and data transmission.

Last updated: 2026-06-11

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Port Number 1194
Protocol OpenVPN

Common Use Cases

  • Secure remote access for employees to corporate networks.
  • Bypassing geo-restrictions and censorship for internet access.
  • Creating secure site-to-site connections between different office locations.
  • Protecting online privacy and anonymity by encrypting internet traffic.

Interactive Command Builder

nc -zv example.com 1194

Check if Port 1194 is Open

sudo netstat -tulnp | grep 1194
netstat -ano | findstr :1194
⚠️ Security Note: While OpenVPN itself is highly secure, an improperly configured OpenVPN server on port 1194 can expose the network to unauthorized access. It's vital to use strong authentication methods, up-to-date certificates, and robust firewall rules.

Related Ports

Frequently Asked Questions

Is port 1194 dangerous to leave open?

Leaving port 1194 open is not inherently dangerous if it's properly secured by a well-configured OpenVPN server. However, an unmanaged or misconfigured OpenVPN server on this port can be a significant security risk, potentially allowing unauthorized access to your network.

What service uses port 1194?

Port 1194 is primarily used by OpenVPN, a popular open-source VPN solution. While other services could theoretically be configured to use it, OpenVPN is the standard and expected service for this port.