Definition
Internet Protocol (IP)
A set of rules that govern how data is transmitted across networks, ensuring communication between devices.
Note
Protocols define how data is formatted, transmitted, and received, enabling interoperability between different systems.
Internet Protocol (IP) is responsible for addressing and routing data packets across networks.
Characteristics of IP
- IP Addressing : Each device on a network is assigned a unique IP address, which identifies the source and destination of data packets.
- Packet Switching : Data is divided into packets, each containing a portion of the data and routing information.
- Connectionless Protocol: IP does not establish a connection before sending data, packets may take different routes to reach the destination.
- Best-Effort Delivery: IP does not guarantee packet delivery, order, or error correction.
Example
- IPv4: 192.168.1.1
- IPv6: 2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP)
Definition
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP)
Protocol which ensures reliable, ordered, and error-checked delivery of data between applications.
Characteristics of TCP
- Connection-Oriented Protocol : TCP establishes a connection between sender and receiver using a three-way handshake.
- Reliable Delivery: TCP ensures all packets are delivered and in the correct order. Missing packets are retransmitted.
- Flow Control: TCP manages the rate of data transmission to prevent network congestion.
- Error Detection and Correction: TCP uses checksums to detect errors and requests retransmission of corrupted packets.
- Port Numbers: TCP uses ports to identify specific applications (e.g., port 80 for HTTP).
Example
Three-Way Handshake: SYN, SYN-ACK, ACK
File Transfer Protocol (FTP)
Definition
File Transfer Protocol (FTP)
Protocol used to transfer files between a client and a server over a network.
Characteristics of FTP
- Client-Server Model: FTP operates on a client-server architecture, where the client requests files from the server.
- Two Channels : FTP uses two separate channels: * Control Channel : Manages commands and responses. * Data Channel: Transfers the actual files.
- Authentication: FTP requires a username and password for access, though anonymous access is sometimes allowed.
- Unencrypted by Default: Standard FTP does not encrypt data, making it vulnerable to interception. Secure versions like FTPS and SFTP address this issue.
Example
FTP Commands: GET (download), PUT (upload), LIST (list files)
Comparison of IP, TCP, and FTP
| Protocol | Purpose | Characteristics | Layer |
|---|---|---|---|
| IP | Addressing and routing packets | Connectionless, best-effort delivery | Network |
| TCP | Reliable data transmission | Connection-oriented, error correction | Transport |
| FTP | File transfer | Client-server model, two channels | Application |
