what is port number, in computer network terms
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An IP address can identify a single system, but a system can host multiple services. How does the system know which service to pass incoming messages to? If you receive messages from multiple services on a system, how do you know which one sent it to you?
Port numbers allow you to address specific services running on a single system. Think of it like one of those stacked mail boxes in apartment complexes. The building address (IP address) is enough to get a letter to the building, but there can be multiple tenants in the same building. In order to get the letter to the correct tenant, you also need need to provide an apartment/suite/etc. number (port number) so that the letter ends up in the correct mailbox.
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