Networking: TCP/IP

What is TCP/IP?

TCP/IP is a suite of protocols that is used to facilitate communication between devices on a network. It is the foundation of the internet and is used by most modern computer networks.

TCP/IP is a layered protocol, which means that it is made up of several different protocols that work together to provide communication services. The four layers of TCP/IP are:

• Application Layer: This layer is responsible for providing services to applications, such as HTTP, FTP, and SMTP.

• Transport Layer: This layer is responsible for providing reliable data transfer between devices. TCP and UDP are the two main protocols used at this layer.

• Internet Layer: This layer is responsible for routing data packets between networks. IP is the main protocol used at this layer.

• Network Access Layer: This layer is responsible for providing physical access to the network. Ethernet is the most common protocol used at this layer.

How does TCP/IP work?

TCP/IP works by breaking data into packets and sending them across the network. Each packet contains a header that includes the source and destination addresses, as well as other information needed for routing.

When a packet is sent, it is routed through the network until it reaches its destination. At the destination, the packet is reassembled and delivered to the appropriate application.

TCP vs. UDP

TCP and UDP are the two main protocols used at the Transport Layer. TCP is a reliable protocol that guarantees delivery of packets. UDP is an unreliable protocol that does not guarantee delivery of packets.

TCP is used for applications that require reliable data transfer, such as file transfers and email. UDP is used for applications that do not require reliable data transfer, such as streaming audio and video.

TCP/IP header

The TCP/IP header contains information about the source and destination addresses, as well as other information needed for routing. The header is used by routers to determine the best path for the packet to take.

TCP/IP data packet

The TCP/IP data packet contains the actual data that is being sent. The data is broken into segments and encapsulated in the TCP/IP header.

Conclusion

TCP/IP is a suite of protocols that is used to facilitate communication between devices on a network. It is the foundation of the internet and is used by most modern computer networks.

TCP/IP is a layered protocol that is made up of a number of different protocols that work together to provide communication services. The four layers of TCP/IP are:

• Application Layer

• Transport Layer

• Internet Layer

• Network Access Layer

TCP and UDP are the two main protocols used at the Transport Layer. TCP is a reliable protocol that guarantees delivery of packets. UDP is an unreliable protocol that does not guarantee delivery of packets.