Communication Protocols Across the Internet
Communication Protocols Across the Internet Data travels on a stack of rules called protocols. Each protocol helps devices communicate, decide how data is formatted, addressed, and protected. The Internet relies on a few core layers that work together, plus many specialized rules for web, email, and file transfer. Understanding these pieces helps you troubleshoot, design networks, and use the web more reliably. Think of four broad layers: link, internet, transport, and application. IP gives every device an address and a path to reach others. TCP adds reliability and order, ensuring data arrives intact and in sequence. UDP moves data quickly, with less overhead and no guaranteed delivery. On top, application protocols like HTTP, DNS, and SMTP carry the actual work you expect—loading a page, resolving a name, or sending mail. ...