RCON

RCON, short for remote console, is a protocol used to remotely administer computer or game servers. It enables an administrator to connect over a TCP-based network and issue commands to the server as if typing at a local console. Access is controlled by a password, and successful authentication allows the client to send command strings and receive textual output in response.

RCON is widely used in gaming and server software, including popular game servers and development tools. It is implemented by many server engines to provide remote administration without requiring a direct, local console. Default ports and configuration vary by application; for example, some Minecraft servers use a configurable port (often 25575), while other game servers may use ports such as 27015 or others defined by the administrator.

The protocol is generally simple and text-oriented. A client connects, authenticates with a password, and, once authorized, can send commands. The server returns the resulting output as text. The exact framing and command set can differ between implementations, but the core model—authenticate, then issue commands and receive responses—is common to most RCON variants.

Security considerations are important: RCON traffic is typically unencrypted, making it susceptible to interception if exposed on untrusted networks. Best practices include restricting access to trusted IP addresses via firewalls, using strong, unique passwords, changing default ports, and employing secure tunneling methods such as SSH, VPN, or TLS-enabled proxies where available. Some environments opt for alternative remote administration methods that provide encryption and auditing.

See also: remote administration, SSH, VPN, TLS, game server management.