TP-Link got back with me and sent this on how to fix the controller without reinstalling / modifying the DB.. Also the reason behind not being able to use 443, I think there should be a dissclaimer...

@d0ugmac1 For what it is worth, I was able to change the default port to 8443 and everything is working.. I have the firewall setup to only allow connections through cloudflare, which should givve me...

@d0ugmac1 yeah, system is a VPS hosted in the cloud.. I have limited it to only accessable through the ufw firewall, so it should be somewhat protected.. at least it will be once I get the port stuff...

For what it is worth.. I am attempting to put this site behind cloudflare, cause you know people.. anywho.. Since I am unable to modify the port to 443 I am unable to.. Cloudflare does not support...

for reference https://community.tp-link.com/en/business/forum/topic/501768

yeah the only problem is, at least in my case, after changing the value in the GUI the controller will no longer load. So either you have to modify the DB or reinstall the controller.. seems half...