- Networking is the foundation of the internet, allowing devices to connect and communicate. Yet, the success of both networking and the internet hinges on the use of protocols. Network protocols are the backbone of communication across networks, defining the rules and standards for data exchange.
- Each protocol type serves a specific purpose, understanding when and how to use these protocols is key to designing and maintaining efficient and secure networks.
Network protocols are the unsung heroes of the internet, silently orchestrating the seamless exchange of information across global networks. So efficient are these protocols at their job that they often operate beneath the radar of the average user, who may rarely consider the intricate mechanisms that power their online experience. However, for those in the field of networking, a deep understanding of these protocols is not just beneficial but essential, as they form the very bedrock of network communication.
1. Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) A.K.A. Internet Protocol (IP)
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) is a fundamental communication protocol that segments data into packets for transmission between servers and clients. Businesses employ TCP for transferring diverse content like files, text, images, and emails due to its assurance of precise and sequential delivery of these packets.
Also read: Maximise network efficiency: Basic steps to increase bandwidth
2. User Datagram Protocol (UDP)
UDP is a network protocol for swift packet transmission between devices, favoured by organisations seeking speed over precision. Unlike TCP, UDP is chosen for applications like video/audio streaming, online gaming, and VoIP that tolerate some data loss. Notably, UDP doesn’t prioritise connection establishment before sending packets, and it doesn’t ensure data delivery to the recipient.
3. File Transfer Protocol (FTP)
FTP is a network protocol for transferring files between devices over an unencrypted TCP/IP connection. Users can use FTP with tools such as FileZilla or FTP Voyager to transfer up to 2GB in a single pass. Many organisations choose to use FTP because of its ability to handle large files or volumes of files quickly and efficiently, however, this convenience can reduce security as FTP transfers data in plain text.
Also read: Demystifying network protocols: Rules for data communication
4. Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP)
HTTP is a web communication protocol facilitating system interactions on the World Wide Web. Clients use HTTP to request resources for loading web pages from servers. An encrypted variant, HTTPS, secures data through SSL/TLS encryption, preventing third-party access to requests and responses.
5. Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)
SNMP is an app layer protocol for gathering management data from devices like computers, routers, switches, firewalls, and printers. Network monitoring tools rely on SNMP to track devices’ performance and status across a network instantly.
6. Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP)
ICMP is a network protocol for signalling connectivity problems and errors between devices. It alerts devices of issues like message length or order discrepancies, prompting content resend. Tools like Ping utilise ICMP to send requests to devices, gauging response time for connection assessment based on the delay in replies.
7. Post Office Protocol (POP)
POP3 is a network protocol for servers to fetch emails from a remote server and save them on a local device. When a client connects via TCP, new messages are automatically downloaded, enabling offline access for users. Email clients like Microsoft Outlook employ POP3 over TCP/IP to retrieve emails from remote servers for off-line availability.
8. Internet Message Access Protocol (IMAP)
IMAP is a protocol for email retrieval where messages are not downloaded locally when opened by a user. Instead, emails stay on the remote server, allowing users to access them from multiple devices.
9. Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP)
SMTP is a mail delivery protocol enabling devices to send emails to remote endpoints via a TCP connection. Major providers like Microsoft Outlook, Gmail, and Yahoo Mail utilise SMTP for sending messages to remote servers.
