Communication Protocols: The Language of Computer Networks
Communication Protocols: The Language of Computer Networks In computer networks, protocols are the rules that let devices talk. They define how data is formatted, how conversations start and end, and how errors are handled. Without a shared language, machines would send bits with no meaning. Key ideas include syntax, semantics, and timing. Syntax covers how data is arranged, such as the order of bits and fields. Semantics tell us what actions are requested—like “send this file” or “confirm receipt.” Timing governs when to send messages and how long to wait for a response. Protocols are built in layers, each with a clear job. A message travels up and down the stack, and each layer adds or reads its own rules. This layering makes networks easier to build and fix as technology changes. ...