Port 3306 is used by MySQL / MariaDB Database (MySQL). MySQL and MariaDB database server. The most popular open-source database, used by WordPress, PHP applications, and countless web services.
What Does an Open Port 3306 Mean?
A MySQL database is exposed to the internet. This is almost always a misconfiguration and a critical security risk. MySQL should only listen on localhost or be accessed via SSH tunnel.
This port should NOT be open to the public internet on typical systems. If you see it open, investigate immediately.
Security Risk Level
Critical Risk
How to Check if Port 3306 Is Open
Use the ExamineIP Port Scanner to check if port 3306 is open on any IP address from the public internet. Enter the target IP and select the relevant port preset.
How to Close Port 3306
- Stop the service using port 3306 if you no longer need it
- Add a firewall rule blocking inbound connections on port 3306
- Check your router for port forwarding rules that expose this port
- Run
netstat -ano | findstr :3306(Windows) to see which process is using it
Related Ports
MySQL is related to: {implode(‘, ‘, Array)}
Protect Your Open Ports
If you need services like remote access, use a VPN to create a private encrypted tunnel instead of exposing ports directly to the internet. A VPN also hides your real IP address so port scanners cannot identify your device. Try PureVPN or IPVanish.