Port 170Print Server Network PostScript
Port 170, officially assigned to Print-srv and Network PostScript services, is used primarily by network-enabled printers and print servers that communicate using Adobe's PostScript language over IP networks. This allows client systems to submit print jobs efficiently to printers supporting PostScript via the network..
- transport
- tcp
- in transit
- cleartext
- assignment
- official
- risk
- 4/10
- lookups
- 6,826
single transport
payload readable on path
registered with iana
caution
rank 750 of 993 · top 76%
Technical Details
what runs on :170Port 170, designated for Print-srv and Network PostScript, facilitates the transmission of print jobs over TCP/IP networks. PostScript is a page description language developed by Adobe, widely used in desktop publishing and high-fidelity printing environments. This port allows client devices to communicate directly with PostScript-enabled printers or dedicated print servers.
Typically, applications and print servers use this port to send raw PostScript data streams from clients to the printer. This approach ensures high compatibility and print quality, as the printer interprets the PostScript commands natively. The protocol operating on this port optimizes the delivery of complex documents involving vector graphics, fonts, and device control instructions.
While not as commonly used as protocols such as IPP (Internet Printing Protocol on port 631) or LPD (Line Printer Daemon on port 515), port 170 remains relevant in specialized print environments that require direct PostScript communication. It caters to high-end printers and publishing workflows where precise page rendering is critical.
Security Information
exposure of :170risk score
4/ 10caution
worth attention. how exposed you are depends on configuration — don't leave it reachable from the internet without a reason.
network services averages 3.9 across 604 ports — this one sits 0.1 above.
in transit
cleartext
credentials and payloads are readable by anyone on path
assignment
official
registered with iana for this service — scanners fingerprint it by number
reachable over
tcp
every listening transport is another surface to filter at the edge
security overview
Common Vulnerabilities:
- Due to its heritage role, services listening on port 170 may lack modern security features such as strong authentication and encryption.
- Open print server ports can be exploited for unauthorized print job submissions (print flooding) or act as relays in Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks.
- Legacy implementations may be prone to buffer overflows or input validation weaknesses, especially if exposed to untrusted networks.
Common Mitigations:
- Restrict access to port 170 to trusted internal networks using firewalls or access control lists.
- Disable services bound to port 170 if not needed, favoring newer secure printing protocols.
- Employ network segmentation to isolate printing infrastructure.
- Regularly update print server software and firmware to address security vulnerabilities.
- Monitor network traffic for unusual connections targeting this port indicative of abuse or reconnaissance.
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risk mix of the 8 listed
- caution100%
0 of 8 encrypted