Network protocol
Because there are so many different devices which all need to be designed to work together over the internet, we need to have a standard so they can all follow to make sure they can communicate with each other properly. We call this standard a protocol.
A protocol is a set of rules that defines how data is transmitted and received between devices on a network. It specifies the format data should be sent in.
Common network protocols
A few of the protocols that we use on the internet and over networks are:
- Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)
- Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP)
- File Transfer Protocol (FTP)
flashcards
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is a protocol? | A set of rules that defines how data is transmitted and received between devices on a network, specifying the format data should be sent in. |
| Why do we need a standard protocol for the internet? | Because there are many different devices which all need to be designed to work together; a standard (protocol) ensures they can communicate properly. |
| Name three common network protocols. | Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), File Transfer Protocol (FTP). |
| What does TCP/IP stand for? | Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol. |
| What does HTTP stand for? | Hypertext Transfer Protocol. |
| What does FTP stand for? | File Transfer Protocol. |