Setting up network for MSDTC connections: How many open ports?

Question

We have a web server (IIS) and a database server (MS SQL 2005) separated by an application proxy / firewall. We want to keep the number of open ports between the two machines at a minimum. Obviously port 1433 (or equivalent) is needed, however, we also need to support MSDTC transactions. The MS advice here suggests port 135 and a range of other ports.

However, there is no guidance regarding the number of ports to keep open. Is one enough? Do I need ten? What determines the number of ports we need open.

Any pointers appreciated!

score 4 · Accepted Answer · edited May 23 '17 at 12:41

4

Here are 2 KB articles that both recommend 15-20 ports being opened in the 5000 range. Here is another article that recommends a minimum of 100 ports because other applications that use RPC dynamic port allocation will use the ports as well. A similar question was asked on stack overflow and it looks like that person accepted the minimum 100 answer.

edited May 23 '17 at 12:41

Community

1

answered Aug 19 '09 at 14:02

MattB

11,124
1
29
36

1

Thanks! I had searched on StackOverflow but didn't find that question (or the answers). – Peter K. Aug 19 '09 at 18:19

Setting up network for MSDTC connections: How many open ports?

1 Answers1