Protocol

Types of Protocols

Protocols are categorized based on their functions in networking and communication:

1. Network Communication Protocols (Transfer of Data)

• TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) – The foundation of the internet, handling how data is sent and received between devices.
• HTTP/HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol/Secure) – Used for browsing websites; HTTPS includes encryption for security.
• FTP (File Transfer Protocol) – Transfers files between computers over a network.
• SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) – Sends emails across networks.
• IMAP/POP3 (Email Retrieval Protocols) – Fetches emails from a mail server.

2. Security Protocols (Protecting Data)

• SSL/TLS (Secure Sockets Layer/Transport Layer Security) – Encrypts data for secure web browsing (used in HTTPS).
• IPSec (Internet Protocol Security) – Secures network traffic over the internet.
• SSH (Secure Shell Protocol) – Allows secure remote access to systems.

3. Routing & Network Management Protocols

• DNS (Domain Name System) – Converts domain names (e.g., google.com) into IP addresses.
• DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) – Automatically assigns IP addresses to devices in a network.
• BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) – Determines the best path for data to travel across networks.

4. Wireless & IoT Protocols

• Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11) – Wireless networking protocol for internet access.
• Bluetooth (IEEE 802.15.1) – Short-range wireless communication protocol.
• MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport) – Lightweight messaging protocol for IoT devices.

Why Are Protocols Important?

✅ Ensure devices communicate seamlessly over networks.
✅ Standardize data transfer, security, and error handling.
✅ Enable internet services like web browsing, emails, and cloud computing.
✅ Enhance security through encrypted communication (HTTPS, TLS, VPN).