What are protocols?
A network protocol is a set of established rules that specify how to format, send and receive data.
The protocols define the format and structure of messages exchanged between devices on the network, as well as the rules for establishing and maintaining connections.
Just like the English language has a set of rules which define things such as sentences and paragraphs, as well as constructs such as verbs, adjectives, adverbs, and so forth, network protocols define how to structure data in such a way that it can be understood by all parties involved in the conversation.
Networking protocols can be implemented in both software and hardware, and they ensure that devices can communicate with each other effectively and efficiently, regardless of their hardware, software, or operating systems.
Examples of some common networking protocols include:
- HTTP – HyperText Transfer Protocol
- FTP – File Transfer Protocol
- SMTP – Simple Mail Transfer Protocol
- DNS – Domain Name System
Each protocol is designed to perform a specific function, such as transmitting data reliably, managing network resources, or resolving domain names to IP addresses.
A group of protocols is typically called a protocol suite, or a protocol stack; for example TCP/IP is one of the most common protocol suites seen in networking
Developing a protocol
A protocol will typically start life as an RFC (Request for Comments) and will be published for public discussion in a draft form. Eventually, the RFC may become a Standard (STD).
Most of the protocols used in modern networking are maintained by either the IESG (Internet Engineering Steering Group) or the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)
RFCs are available for view via the RFC editor which is currently managed by Associate Management Solutions under a contract with the IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force)
When a protocol is updated or amended, it never gets removed or replaced, instead a new RFC is produced superseding the previous one(s).
Manufacturers wanting to produce a device or a service which includes a networking aspect will use the RFCs and STDs to ensure that their products offer interoperability with other devices on the network.