Port 445 is primarily used by Microsoft's Server Message Block (SMB), a network protocol mainly applied for providing shared access to files, printers, and serial ports over a network. It is also used by the Common Internet File System (CIFS) protocol, which is a dialect of SMB. Both SMB and CIFS are also used for inter-process communication over a network. If the port is open, it can be exploited by worms like Sasser and Conficker.
UDP port 445 is typically associated with the Server Message Block (SMB) protocol, which is used for file sharing and other network communications. In the past, hackers have exploited this port to spread malware or ransomware, such as the infamous WannaCry and NotPetya attacks. These attacks exploited a vulnerability in Microsoft's implementation of the SMB protocol, allowing the malware to spread rapidly across networks. Once inside, the malware could encrypt files and demand a ransom for their release. This port has also been used in SMB Relay attacks, where an attacker intercepts SMB traffic and uses it to gain unauthorized access to systems. Therefore, it is crucial to secure this port and regularly update and patch systems to prevent such exploits.
