Subversion

SVN, or Subversion, is a version control system used to manage and track changes to files, particularly source code. It allows multiple users to collaborate on projects by providing a centralized repository. SVN ensures that changes are versioned, making it easier to revert to previous states and track the history of modifications.

What is Subversion

SVN, or Apache Subversion, is a version control system that was created to manage and track changes to files, especially source code. It was developed by CollabNet Inc. in 2000 and has since become a widely used tool in software development. SVN allows multiple users to collaborate on projects by providing a centralized repository where all changes are stored and managed.

One of the key features of SVN is its ability to maintain a history of changes, which makes it easier to revert to previous versions of files if needed. This is particularly useful in software development, where bugs and issues can be traced back to specific changes. SVN also supports branching and merging, which allows developers to work on different features or fixes simultaneously without interfering with each other's work.

SVN operates over the network using port 3690, which is the default port for the SVN protocol. This allows users to access the repository from remote locations, making it a valuable tool for distributed teams. Despite the rise of other version control systems like Git, SVN remains a popular choice for many organizations due to its simplicity and robust feature set.

Subversion runs on TCP and UDP port 3690 and is official IANA port.

Security risk

If port 3690 is open and the SVN service is running, it could be a target for unauthorized access or attacks. An attacker could potentially gain access to the repository, leading to data breaches or unauthorized changes to the source code. It is crucial to secure this port with proper authentication and encryption to mitigate these risks.

In our UFW tutorial you can follow instructions how you can configure UFW to close port 3690. Use StackChanges to monitor if the Subversion port is closed and stays closed. StackChanges will send an alert if port 3690 is open again.