TCP/IP

TCP/IP

TCP and IP are the basic language used by the internet. These two work together and establish rules that allow communication between computers that are connected through the worldwide web.

The function of the TCP (transmission control protocol) is to send and receive packets of data to and from computers in the internet, of course the IP is a part of this too. The way the TCP works is that it creates a connection with a computer and maintains it until the information is completely sent.

Now, the IP (internet protocol) works alongside the TCP. The role of the IP is also to deliver or receive data and information through the internet or a server.

There are many layers within TCP/IP. These are as follows: Application Layer, Transport Layer, Network Layer, and Data Link Layer.

Application Layer

This is the top layer of the protocol suit. Within this layer, there are applications or processes that use the transport layer. The popular protocols within this layer are HTTP (Hypertext transfer protocol), FTP (File transfer protocol), SMTP (Simple mail transfer protocol), and SNMP (Simple network management protocol).

Transport Layer

The role of this layer is to receive the data transferred from the previous layer. There are many protocols within this layer, the popular ones being TCP and UDP. TCP is used when there is a reliable connection, where as UDP is used when there isn’t a very reliable connection.

Network Layer

The network layer, otherwise known as the internet layer, is responsible for the organisation and sending/ movement of data over the internet or a network. The main protocol of this layer is IP. Other protocols used in this layer include ICMP and IGMP.

Data Link Layer

This is the final layer – Data link layer, also known as the network interface layer, is responsible for the receiving of data. The protocols commonly used within this layer ARP and PPP.

To find out more check out:  http://www.w3schools.com/website/web_tcpip.asp