Network ports are virtual endpoints in a computer's operating system that allow different applications to communicate over a network. Each port is identified by a unique number, ranging from 0 to 65535, and is associated with specific protocols, such as TCP or UDP. Commonly used ports include HTTP on port 80 for web traffic and HTTPS on port 443 for secure web traffic. When data is sent over the internet, it is directed to a specific port on a device, ensuring that the correct application receives the information. This organization helps manage multiple connections simultaneously, allowing services like email, file transfer, and streaming to function efficiently without interference.