In the realm of computer networking, ports act as virtual doorways, directing traffic to specific services and applications running on servers. Among the vast range of port numbers, Server Port 104 stands out due to its association with a critical application in the medical field: ACR/NEMA Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM). This article delves into the details of port 104, exploring its function, protocols, and relevance in network communication.
Port 104 is officially registered with the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) for the acr-nema service, commonly known as ACR/NEMA DICOM. This designation signifies its primary use in handling communication for medical imaging equipment. DICOM is a standard for handling, storing, printing, and transmitting information in medical imaging. It encompasses a file format definition and a network communications protocol.
Operating on both TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) and UDP (User Datagram Protocol), port 104 facilitates the exchange of DICOM data. TCP, being connection-oriented, ensures reliable transmission of medical images, guaranteeing data delivery and correct sequencing of packets – crucial for accurate diagnostic information. UDP, while connectionless and offering less reliability, may be utilized for specific DICOM functionalities where speed is prioritized over guaranteed delivery, although TCP is the more prevalent protocol for DICOM communication on port 104.
It’s important to understand the distinction between TCP and UDP in the context of port 104. TCP establishes a dedicated connection between two points for ongoing communication, ensuring every piece of data arrives correctly. UDP, on the other hand, sends data packets without establishing a persistent connection, making it faster but potentially less reliable for applications requiring guaranteed data integrity. For medical imaging, the reliability of TCP is generally favored for most DICOM services operating on port 104.
When troubleshooting network issues or investigating potential security concerns related to server port 104, tools like netstat -aon are invaluable. This command, applicable in both Windows and Linux environments, lists active network connections and listening ports, helping identify which processes are utilizing port 104. Furthermore, running comprehensive anti-virus and anti-malware scans is a recommended step to rule out any malicious software that might be attempting to exploit or utilize this port.
In conclusion, server port 104 is predominantly associated with ACR/NEMA DICOM, serving as a key communication endpoint for medical imaging devices. Its utilization of both TCP and UDP protocols, with a strong emphasis on TCP for reliable data transfer, underscores its importance in the healthcare sector. Understanding the function and protocols of port 104 is essential for network administrators and IT professionals managing systems within medical environments, ensuring both efficient operation and robust security.
