Port 753Reverse Routing Header (RRH)

Port 753 is assigned for the Reverse Routing Header (RRH) protocol, which facilitates advanced routing control for IP packets. It's primarily used in experimental or specialized network environments that require customized packet routing and is an official, unencrypted control protocol operating mainly over TCP..

transport
tcp

single transport

in transit
cleartext

payload readable on path

assignment
official

registered with iana

risk
4/10

caution

lookups
5,755

rank 855 of 993 · top 86%

1 other service is registered on port 753. compare all 2

Technical Details

what runs on :753

Reverse Routing Header (RRH) is a network protocol primarily aimed at experimental or specialized routing scenarios. It enables the inclusion of routing instructions in packet headers, specifying how packets should be routed across complex network topologies. This functionality was conceived to give source devices or intermediate routers better control over traffic flows, particularly in multipath routing or specific route reversal processes.

The RRH protocol operates mainly over TCP on port 753, utilizing its reliable transport characteristics to ensure the correct transmission of routing control information. The protocol allows the sender to embed routing directives, which are used by intermediate devices to manage packet forwarding decisions dynamically. Because of its niche purpose, RRH is not widely adopted in mainstream networks but might be encountered in experimental IP routing environments, research networks, or certain specialized implementations.

RRH is part of a family of IP routing header extensions aiming to increase routing flexibility. While its intended to enhance control over routing paths, modern networks typically favor other mechanisms such as MPLS, SDN controllers, or overlay networks for similar functionality. Consequently, RRH remains largely an experimental technology without broad deployment.

Security Information

exposure of :753

risk 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 control nature, RRH might be susceptible to packet injection attacks, where malicious actors craft packets to manipulate routing paths.
  • Denial of Service (DoS) threats exist if attackers flood port 753 with rogue RRH packets, disrupting legitimate routing control processes.
  • Information disclosure, since routing details embedded in headers might be intercepted if sent unencrypted, could assist attackers in network reconnaissance.

Common Mitigations:

  • Implement strict access controls and filtering at network borders to restrict who can send RRH packets.
  • Use firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor and block unusual or unauthorized access to port 753.
  • Where feasible, deploy transport or network-layer encryption/tunneling to protect routing control data against eavesdropping.
  • Regularly update routing equipment firmware to patch any vulnerabilities that could affect RRH handling.

the 8 most looked-up other ports in network services — 604 ports carry that label.

risk mix of the 8 listed

  • caution100%

0 of 8 encrypted