A protocol is a set ofnrules that governs the communication between computers on a network. There are many protocols, each one governing that way a certain technology works.
What is a network protocol?
The rules and guidelines that specify how data is sent and received via a network are known as a network protocol. These protocols guarantee dependable and effective communication between devices made by various vendors.
Types of Network Protocol
- IP (Internet Protocol)
- TCP(TransmissionControl Protocol)
- HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol)
- FTP (File TransferProtocol)
- POP ( Post Office Protocol)
- SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol)
- Enthernet
- wi-Fi
- UDP (User Datagram Protocol)
- Gopher
- Telnet
Internet Protocol (IP)
Purpose: transports data packets from their origin to their final location.
Versions: IPv4 (32-bit) and IPv6 (128-bit).
How it works: gives devices IP addresses, which are then used to forward traffic.
User Datagram Protocol (UDP)
Purpose: Quick, error-free transmission without a connection.
Used in: Streaming, online games, VoIP.
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Features:
- No guarantee of delivery
- Low latency
- Lightweight protocol
- Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP / HTTPS)
Purpose: moves web pages from a client to a server.
HTTPS: Secure version with encryption via SSL/TLS.
Used in: Browsing websites, web apps.
File Transfer Protocol (FTP)
Purpose: Transfers files between a client and server.
Secure Variants: FTPS, SFTP.
Commands: GET, PUT, LIST.
Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP)
Purpose: Sends emails.
Works with: POP3 or IMAP to retrieve emails.
Secure version: SMTPS (uses SSL/TLS)
Post Office Protocol (POP3) and Internet Message Access Protocol (IMAP)
POP3: removes emails from the server after downloading them.
IMAP: maintains email synchronization between devices and on the server
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)
Purpose: gives networked devices their IP addresses automatically.
How it works: When a client submits a request, the DHCP server responds with configuration details.
Domain Name System (DNS)
Purpose: Translates human-readable domain names (like google.com) into IP addresses.
Works like: A phone book for the internet.
Secure Shell (SSH)
Purpose: safely connects to distant PCs over a network.
Used by: system managers for managing servers remotely.
Protocol Stack (TCP/IP Model Layers)
Application Layer – Apps and services (HTTP, FTP, SMTP)
Transport Layer – Reliable delivery (TCP, UDP)
Internet Layer – Addressing and routing (IP)
Network Access Layer – Physical transmission (Ethernet, Wi-Fi)
Why Are Network Protocols Important?
Interoperability: Devices from many suppliers are able to exchange information.
Efficiency: specifies the amount, frequency, and format of the data.
Security: Protocols like HTTPS and SSH encrypt communication.
Scalability: Standard protocols allow easy expansion of networks.
You can also read : Advantage of Computer In Modern Life
Summary
Computers and other devices can communicate with one another via a network thanks to standardized standards called network protocols. In order for devices to exchange information precisely and effectively, these protocols specify how data is formatted, sent, and received. They are necessary to enable file transfers, email correspondence, internet functionality, and safe data transfer. SMTP and IMAP for email services, HTTP and HTTPS for website access, FTP for file transfers, and TCP/IP, which serves as the basis for the internet, are typical examples. Devices from many manufacturers can function together seamlessly by adhering to certain protocols, enabling contemporary digital communication.
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