rsync
RSYNC is a widely-used utility for file transfer and synchronization. It operates over port 873 and is known for its efficiency in copying and updating files between systems. RSYNC minimizes data transfer by only sending the differences between source and destination files.
What is rsync
RSYNC is a powerful utility designed for efficient file transfer and synchronization across computer systems. It operates over port 873 and is particularly known for its ability to minimize data transfer by only sending the differences between the source and destination files. This makes it an ideal tool for backup and mirroring tasks.
Developed by Andrew Tridgell and Paul Mackerras, RSYNC has become a staple in the toolkit of system administrators and IT professionals. Its algorithm is designed to reduce the amount of data sent over the network, making it both time and bandwidth efficient. RSYNC can be used for local file transfers as well as remote file transfers, making it versatile for various use cases.
RSYNC supports a wide range of features including incremental backups, file permissions, symbolic links, and more. It can be run as a daemon or used in conjunction with SSH for secure file transfers. The utility is open-source and has been integrated into many backup and synchronization solutions, further cementing its importance in the realm of file management.
rsync runs on TCP and UDP port 873 and is official IANA port.Security risk
If port 873 is open and the RSYNC service is running, it could be exploited by unauthorized users to access and modify files. This poses a significant security risk, especially if sensitive data is being transferred. Proper authentication and encryption methods should be employed to mitigate these risks.
In our UFW tutorial you can follow instructions how you can configure UFW to close port 873. Use StackChanges to monitor if the rsync port is closed and stays closed. StackChanges will send an alert if port 873 is open again.