If you want to view all open network connections, both inbound and outbound transfers, on your Mac, then you can use a command line program called Open_Ports. This free tool is more useful than using lsofia, as it provides extensive network information in an easy-to-read format.
Open_Ports shows you which process or program is using the connection, the port and user, the number of connections per process, and even the hostname, country, and city to which it’s connecting. It also displays all open ports that are listening for connections, providing information about the application, user, port number and name, and even the IP range of the service.
The Mac version of Open_Ports is built for use with GeekTool, so you can display the output on your desktop. It’s a great way to monitor network activity and ensure the security of your system.
How to Install Open_Ports on Mac OS X
Installation requires some experience with the command line, but the process is straightforward. Here are the steps:
- Download the installer from http://fileadmin.cs.lth.se/cs/Personal/Peter_Moller/scripts/open_ports_install.sh
- Open Terminal
- Enter the command ‘sudo -i’ to become root
- Set permissions for the installer: chmod 755 open_ports_install.sh
- Run the script: ./open_ports_install.sh
- Installation is usually quick; on a Mac, double-click the .PrefPane file to install it
- In GeekTool, click the Shell icon and drag it to your desktop. Enter the command ‘open_ports.sh’ and set the update interval.
Once installed, you can view the output on your desktop or in the terminal.
Benefits of Using Open_Ports
- Free and easy-to-use tool for monitoring network connections
- More useful than using lsofia, as it provides extensive network information
- Displays all open ports that are listening for connections
- Built for use in GeekTool, so you can display the output on your desktop
FAQs
What is Open_Ports?
Open_Ports is a command line program for Mac OS X that allows you to view all open network connections, both inbound and outbound transfers.
How does Open_Ports compare to lsofia?
Open_Ports is more useful than using lsofia, as it provides extensive network information in an easy-to-read format, including which program or process opens the connection, which port and user, number of connections per process, hostname to connect to country, and even city.
Can I display Open_Ports output on my desktop?
Yes, the Mac version of Open_Ports is built for use with GeekTool, so you can display the output on your desktop.
Is Open_Ports free?
Yes, Open_Ports is a free tool.
Final Thoughts
Open_Ports is a powerful tool for monitoring network connections on your Mac. With its extensive information and easy-to-read format, you can ensure the security of your system and keep track of all open ports. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us.
