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Network protocols

The data now "knows", with the correct information, where it has to go and also arrives there. However, the next step is to define the language in which the letter is written. The word language is replaced by the term protocols in the network world. Similar to the ports, there are ready-made, standardized protocols that are understood by all or many people. However, anyone who wants to (for example, software manufacturers) can also create and use their own protocols. As an example, it is worth taking a look at the protocols of a network, which are used by almost everyone today: on the Internet.

IP (Internet Protocol)

One component of communication on the Internet is the IP protocol. Its general task is to address the data packets and beyond:

  • Assembling the received data at the destination
  • Switching in networks (routing)
  • No error correction, but error diagnosis
  • The provision of IP as the basis of the Internet

TCP (Transmission Control Protocol)

The second part of communication in the network is the TCP protocol. The task of TCP is the transmission of data. It is also characterized by the following properties:

  • Connection-oriented transport protocol in networks
  • Establishment of a virtual channel between two end points in a network (from software to software)
  • Validation of data using a checksum
  • Ensuring the correct sequence of data packets with a sequence number

TCP/IP

Together, this results in the well-known TCP/IP protocol, which ensures that data packets within a network reach the recipient. TCP/IP provides the following central functions:

  • Logical addressing (IP)
  • Path finding / routing (IP)
  • Error handling and flow control (TCP)
  • Application support (TCP)
  • Name resolution (DNS - Domain Name Service)