{"id":3910,"date":"2011-08-01T13:07:25","date_gmt":"2011-08-01T13:07:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/protocol\/"},"modified":"2024-11-27T19:06:00","modified_gmt":"2024-11-27T19:06:00","slug":"protocol","status":"publish","type":"definition","link":"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/protocol","title":{"rendered":"Protocol"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2><span id=\"what_is_protocol\">What is Protocol?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Protocol, in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/4607\/computer\">computers<\/a> and technology, is a broad definition used to describe any standard set of rules that enables <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/24152\/information-and-communications-technology-ict\">communication<\/a> between systems, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/2185\/device\">devices<\/a>, or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/4356\/software\">software<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Computer protocols ensure successful <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/9756\/data-transmission\">data transmission<\/a> by defining steps and processes for communication between systems. For example, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/12938\/network-protocols\">network protocols<\/a> like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/2336\/hypertext-transfer-protocol-http\">hypertext transfer protocol<\/a> (HTTP) govern the exchange of data across networks, while <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/1770\/cryptography\">cryptographic<\/a> protocols, such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/3996\/kerberos\">Kerberos<\/a>, secure communications.<\/p>\n<p>Like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/24815\/programming-language\">programming languages<\/a>, protocols are based on specific rules for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/6597\/computing\">computing<\/a> and designed for efficiency. Each rule is defined in different terms and is assigned a unique name. All protocols follow their own framework of task-specific rules and operate in a standardized way.<\/p>\n<p>Why are protocols important? Protocols specify the standards for communication and provide detailed information on processes involved in data transmission.<\/p>\n<p>Such processes include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Communication task (e.g., <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/7192\/file-transfer\">file transfer<\/a>, email).<\/li>\n<li>Data exchange rules (e.g., <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/24159\/error-checking-and-correction\">error checking<\/a>).<\/li>\n<li>Data flow rate (e.g., <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/5245\/bandwidth\">bandwidth<\/a> control).<\/li>\n<li>Data type (e.g., text, video).<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/30187\/device-management\">Device management<\/a> (e.g., establishing connections).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A single process can be handled by more than one protocol simultaneously. This coordination of protocols creates a protocol family.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/What-is-Protocol-Definition-Types-Use-Cases-300x147.jpg\" alt=\"What is Protocol Definition, Types &amp; Use Cases\" width=\"1200\" height=\"587\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-364994\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/What-is-Protocol-Definition-Types-Use-Cases-300x147.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/What-is-Protocol-Definition-Types-Use-Cases-1024x501.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/What-is-Protocol-Definition-Types-Use-Cases-768x375.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/What-is-Protocol-Definition-Types-Use-Cases-130x63.jpg 130w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/What-is-Protocol-Definition-Types-Use-Cases-104x50.jpg 104w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/What-is-Protocol-Definition-Types-Use-Cases-83x40.jpg 83w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/What-is-Protocol-Definition-Types-Use-Cases-1536x751.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/What-is-Protocol-Definition-Types-Use-Cases-1200x587.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/What-is-Protocol-Definition-Types-Use-Cases-1980x968.jpg 1980w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/What-is-Protocol-Definition-Types-Use-Cases.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"su-note\"  style=\"border-color:#e5e54c;border-radius:3px;-moz-border-radius:3px;-webkit-border-radius:3px;\"><div class=\"su-note-inner su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" style=\"background-color:#FFFF66;border-color:#ffffff;color:#333333;border-radius:3px;-moz-border-radius:3px;-webkit-border-radius:3px;\">\n<h2><span id=\"key_takeaways\">Key Takeaways<\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Protocols are based on specific rules and designed for efficiency.<\/li>\n<li>Protocols ensure interoperability across devices and platforms.<\/li>\n<li>A single process can be handled by more than one protocol simultaneously.<\/li>\n<li>Cyberattacks may target vulnerabilities in protocols like DNS, HTTP, or TCP\/IP.<\/li>\n<li>Network security protocols encrypt and secure data during transmission.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div>\n    <section class=\"toc-sticky w-100 bg-white \">\n        <div class=\"toc-sticky__container container\">\n            <div class=\"toc-sticky__open d-flex align-items-end\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\"\n                 aria-controls=\"multiCollapse1\"\n                 data-bs-target=\"#multiCollapse1\">\n                <button\n                        class=\"btn btn-primary collapse-action-btn p-1 rounded-circle\"\n                        type=\"button\"\n                >\n                    <i class=\"icon-chevron-up\"><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <span id=\"toc-current-title\" class=\"d-flex align-items-center\">\n                    Table of Contents\n                <\/span>\n                <span class=\"toc-main-title-permanent\">Table of Contents<\/span>\n            <\/div>\n            <div\n                    class=\"collapse my-3\"\n                    id=\"multiCollapse1\"\n            >\n                <ol class=\"StepProgress\">\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item current\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"what_is_protocol\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"what_is_protocol\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">What is Protocol?<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"key_takeaways\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"key_takeaways\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">Key Takeaways<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"how_protocol_works\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"how_protocol_works\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">How Protocol Works<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"the_osi_model\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"the_osi_model\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">The OSI Model<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"protocol_types\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"protocol_types\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">Protocol Types<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"protocols_in_cyberattacks\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"protocols_in_cyberattacks\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">Protocols in Cyberattacks<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"protocol_use_cases\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"protocol_use_cases\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">Protocol Use Cases<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"examples_of_protocols\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"examples_of_protocols\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">Examples of Protocols<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"protocol_pros_and_cons\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"protocol_pros_and_cons\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">Protocol Pros and Cons<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"the_bottom_line\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"the_bottom_line\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">The Bottom Line<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"faqs\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"faqs\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">FAQs<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"references\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"references\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">References<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                    <\/ol>\n                <div class=\"toc-sticky__container__disperse\"><\/div>\n                <div class=\"toc-sticky__btn-top justify-content-center\">\n                    <button class=\"btn btn-link d-flex align-items-center\" onclick={btnTop()}><p>Show Full Guide<\/p><img decoding=\"async\"\n                                src=\"\/wp-content\/plugins\/table-of-contents\/assets\/images\/arrow-up-circle.svg\"\n                                alt=\"arrow-up-circle\">\n                    <\/button>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n    <div class=\"toc-sticky-list\">\n        <div class=\"toc-sticky__container container\">\n            <div class=\"toc-sticky__open d-flex align-items-end\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" aria-controls=\"multiCollapse2\" data-bs-target=\"#multiCollapse2\">\n                <button class=\"btn btn-primary collapse-action-btn p-1 rounded-circle\"\n                        type=\"button\">\n                    <i class=\"icon-chevron-up up\"><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <span id=\"toc-current-title\" class=\"d-flex align-items-center\">\n                    Table of Contents\n                <\/span>\n            <\/div>\n            <div  class=\"collapse my-3\" id=\"multiCollapse2\">\n                <ol class=\"StepProgress\">\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t                                                     <li class=\"StepProgress-item current \">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"what_is_protocol\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"what_is_protocol\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">What is Protocol?<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t                                                     <li class=\"StepProgress-item \">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"key_takeaways\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"key_takeaways\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">Key Takeaways<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t                                                     <li class=\"StepProgress-item \">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"how_protocol_works\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"how_protocol_works\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">How Protocol Works<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t <span class=\"show_moretoc\">Show Full Guide<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"the_osi_model\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"the_osi_model\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">The OSI Model<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"protocol_types\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"protocol_types\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">Protocol Types<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"protocols_in_cyberattacks\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"protocols_in_cyberattacks\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">Protocols in Cyberattacks<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"protocol_use_cases\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"protocol_use_cases\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">Protocol Use Cases<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"examples_of_protocols\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"examples_of_protocols\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">Examples of Protocols<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"protocol_pros_and_cons\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"protocol_pros_and_cons\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">Protocol Pros and Cons<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"the_bottom_line\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"the_bottom_line\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">The Bottom Line<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"faqs\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"faqs\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">FAQs<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"references\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"references\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">References<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                                    <\/ol>\n            <\/div>\n            <div 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pageLegendCollapse);\n\tjQuery('span.show_moretoc').click(function(){\n\t\tjQuery('span.show_moretoc').hide();\n\t   jQuery('.ms_hidetoc').show();\n\t});\n    });\n\n    \/\/ When the user clicks on the button, scroll to the top of the document\n    function btnTop() {\n        const pageLegend = document.querySelector('#multiCollapse1');\n        document.querySelector('html').classList.remove('overflow-hidden');\n        pageLegend.classList.remove('overflow-auto');\n        pageLegend.style.height = 'auto';\n        window.scrollTo({\n            top: 0,\n            behavior: 'smooth'\n        });\n    }\n\n    const handleScrollToTitle = (id) => {\n        const el = document.getElementById(id);\n        const headerHeightDifference = window.innerWidth < 992 ? -30 : -15;\n        window.scrollTo({\n            top: el.offsetTop - 60 - headerHeightDifference - 10,\n        });\n    }\n<\/script>\n\n<h2><span id=\"how_protocol_works\">How Protocol Works<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Protocol defines a standard set of rules enabling communication between systems. Complex processes are broken down into smaller tasks to ensure a reliable exchange of data in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/604\/digital-definition\">digital<\/a> communications.<\/p>\n<p>For example, HTTP \u2013 a type of protocol for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/5613\/web\">Web<\/a> data transfer \u2013\u00a0 specifies tasks like establishing the connection, sending the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/2413\/http-request-header\">HTTP request<\/a> to the server, processing the request, returning a response, and closing the connection.<\/p>\n<p>Protocols ensure all devices interpret data in the same way, regardless of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/288\/web-browser\">browser<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/3411\/platform-computing\">platform<\/a>. This is why HTTP and other protocols work the same way across devices and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/operating-system-os\">operating systems<\/a> (OS).<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"the_osi_model\">The OSI Model<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/OSI-Protocols-Techopedia-explains-182x300.jpg\" alt=\"OSI Protocols \" width=\"1200\" height=\"1981\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-364995\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/OSI-Protocols-Techopedia-explains-182x300.jpg 182w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/OSI-Protocols-Techopedia-explains-620x1024.jpg 620w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/OSI-Protocols-Techopedia-explains-768x1268.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/OSI-Protocols-Techopedia-explains-931x1536.jpg 931w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/OSI-Protocols-Techopedia-explains-1241x2048.jpg 1241w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/OSI-Protocols-Techopedia-explains-1200x1980.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/OSI-Protocols-Techopedia-explains-1980x3268.jpg 1980w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/OSI-Protocols-Techopedia-explains-scaled.jpg 1551w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/2\/27094\/networks\/an-introduction-to-the-osi-model\">open systems interconnection<\/a> (OSI) model is a conceptual framework that defines network communication. It operates as a hierarchical structure, assigning specific tasks to each of its seven layers. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/24961\/osi-protocols\">OSI protocols<\/a> are designed to operate within or across these layers.<\/p>\n<p>Examples include:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Physical layer:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/5280\/ethernet\">Ethernet<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/2320\/universal-serial-bus-usb\">Universal Serial Bus<\/a> (USB), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/26198\/bluetooth\">Bluetooth<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Data link layer:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/wireless-fidelity-wi-fi\">Wi-Fi<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/25315\/point-to-point-protocol-ppp\">Point-to-Point Protocol<\/a> (PPP), High-Level Data Link Control (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/5676\/high-level-data-link-control-hdlc\">HDLC<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Network layer:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/5366\/internet-protocol-ip\">Internet Protocol<\/a> (IP), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/24846\/routing-information-protocol-rip\">Routing Information Protocol<\/a> (RIP), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/5362\/internet-control-message-protocol-icmp\">Internet Control Message Protocol<\/a> (ICMP)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Transport layer<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/13460\/user-datagram-protocol-udp\">User Datagram Protocol<\/a> (UDP), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/5773\/transmission-control-protocol-tcp\">Transmission Control Protocol<\/a> (TCP), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/461\/stream-control-transmission-protocol-sctp\">Stream Control Transmission Protocol<\/a> (SCTP)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Session layer:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/3188\/network-basic-input-output-system-netbios\">Network basic input output system<\/a> (NetBIOS), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/3191\/point-to-point-tunneling-protocol-pptp\">Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol<\/a> (PPTP), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/421\/session-initiation-protocol-sip\">Session Initiation Protocol<\/a> (SIP)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Presentation layer<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/4143\/transport-layer-security-tls\">Transport Layer Security<\/a> (TLS), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/29747\/secure-socket-layer-encryption-ssl-encryption\">Secure Sockets Layer<\/a> (SSL), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/24322\/american-standard-for-information-interchange-ascii\">American Standard Code for Information Interchange<\/a> (ASCII)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Application layer<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/2336\/hypertext-transfer-protocol-http\">Hypertext Transfer Protocol<\/a> (HTTP), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/1710\/simple-mail-transfer-protocol-smtp\">Simple Mail Transfer Protocol<\/a> (SMTP), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/24201\/domain-name-system-dns\">Domain name system<\/a> (DNS)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2><span id=\"protocol_types\">Protocol Types<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/12938\/network-protocols\">Network protocols<\/a> are categorized into three main types: communication, management, and security. There are other types of protocols that address specific tasks or functions, such as facilitating device interactions or managing email communications.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Types of protocols<\/strong> include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Cryptographic protocols<\/li>\n<li>Data transfer protocols<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/24803\/electronic-mail-e-mail\">Email<\/a> protocols<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/2419\/internet\">Internet<\/a> protocols<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/25705\/communication-protocol\">Network communication protocols<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/11987\/network-management-protocol-nmp\">Network management protocols<\/a> (NMP)<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/29036\/network-security-protocols\">Network security protocols<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/25927\/routing-protocol\">Routing protocols<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/10062\/wireless-communications\">Wireless communication<\/a> protocols<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span id=\"protocols_in_cyberattacks\">Protocols in Cyberattacks<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>What are protocols in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/24748\/cyberattack\">cyberattacks<\/a>? By definition, protocols are standard rules to enable communication between systems, and cyberattacks can <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/4275\/exploit\">exploit<\/a> weaknesses to manipulate data transmission. Often, this happens due to improper protocol implementation or configuration. Attackers may also exploit flaws, especially with outdated protocols.<\/p>\n<p>Cyberattacks typically target <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/13484\/vulnerability\">vulnerabilities<\/a> in protocols like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/24201\/domain-name-system-dns\">DNS<\/a>, HTTP, or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/2460\/transmission-control-protocolinternet-protocol-tcpip\">TCP\/IP<\/a> to launch attacks. An example is a <i>Golden Ticket attack<\/i>, where the attacker exploits vulnerabilities in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/3996\/kerberos\">Kerberos<\/a> identity authentication protocol to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.crowdstrike.com\/en-us\/cybersecurity-101\/cyberattacks\/golden-ticket-attack\/\" target=\"_blank\">gain almost unlimited access<\/a> to an organization&#8217;s domain (e.g., devices, files, domain controllers).<\/p>\n<p>Using security protocols, such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/24842\/internet-protocol-security-ipsec\">IPsec<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/4127\/secure-shell-ssh\">SSH<\/a>, helps encrypt and secure communication to mitigate cyberattacks. In addition to security protocols, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/antivirus\/best-antivirus-with-vpn\">anti-virus software<\/a> plays a role in identifying and removing <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/4015\/malicious-software-malware\">malicious software<\/a> that could exploit protocol vulnerabilities to improve overall <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/24747\/cybersecurity\">cybersecurity<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"protocol_use_cases\">Protocol Use Cases<\/span><\/h2>\n<div class=\"su-tabs su-tabs-style-default su-tabs-mobile-stack su-tabs-vertical\" data-active=\"1\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-tabs-nav\"><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><strong>Bitcoin<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><strong>Smart home systems<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><strong>Video streaming<\/strong><\/span><\/div><div class=\"su-tabs-panes\"><div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"&lt;strong&gt;Bitcoin&lt;\/strong&gt;\">\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/30246\/blockchain\">Blockchain<\/a> protocols enable data to be shared securely and reliably across cryptocurrency networks. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/27193\/bitcoin-btc\">Bitcoin<\/a> (BTC), the most well-known crypto protocol, lets people conduct financial transactions with one another without trusted third parties and enables transactions that are not reversible.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"&lt;strong&gt;Smart home systems&lt;\/strong&gt;\">\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/top-iot-communication-protocols-and-standards\">Internet-of-things<\/a> (IoT) protocols are standards that define how devices connect, transmit, and interpret data between different IoT devices and platforms. Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) is one of the most widely used IoT protocols. Designed for environments with limited bandwidth, it facilitates reliable messaging between IoT devices, for applications like smart home systems.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"&lt;strong&gt;Video streaming&lt;\/strong&gt;\">\n<p>Video streaming protocols enable the delivery of audio and video content over networks. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/4753\/real-time-streaming-protocol-rtsp\">Real-Time Streaming Protocol<\/a> (RTSP) is a widely used protocol for applications like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/16305\/ip-camera\">IP cameras<\/a> and surveillance systems, allowing people to play, pause, and stop videos in real time.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<h2><span id=\"examples_of_protocols\">Examples of Protocols<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Protocol examples include:<\/p>\n<div class=\"su-table su-table-responsive su-table-alternate\">\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th><strong>Protocol type<\/strong><\/th>\n<th><strong>Description<\/strong><\/th>\n<th><strong>Examples<\/strong><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Network communication protocols<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Manage data transfer across a network<\/td>\n<td>IP, TCP, UDP<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Network management protocols<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Monitor, maintain, and control networks<\/td>\n<td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/5473\/simple-network-management-protocol-snmp\">SNMP<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/4512\/network-time-protocol-ntp\">NTP<\/a>, ICMP<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Network security protocols<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Encrypt and secure data during transmission<\/td>\n<td>TLS, SSH, IPsec<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Wireless communication protocols<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Support data exchange over wireless networks<\/td>\n<td>Wi-Fi (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/24967\/ieee-80211\">IEEE 802.11<\/a>), Bluetooth, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/27583\/near-field-communication-nfc\">NFC<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Routing protocols<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Direct data packets between networks<\/td>\n<td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/5378\/open-shortest-path-first-ospf\">OSPF<\/a>, RIP, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/16186\/enhanced-interior-gateway-routing-protocol-eigrp\">EIGRP<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Email protocols<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Handle sending, receiving, and managing emails<\/td>\n<td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/5383\/post-office-protocol-pop\">POP3<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/1681\/internet-message-access-protocol-imap\">IMAP<\/a>, SMTP<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Internet protocols<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Enable communication and data exchange on the web<\/td>\n<td>HTTP\/HTTPS, FTP, DNS<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Data transfer protocols<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Transfer files securely between systems<\/td>\n<td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/1879\/secure-file-transfer-protocol-sftp\">SFTP<\/a>, FTP, HTTPS<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span id=\"protocol_pros_and_cons\">Protocol Pros and Cons<\/span><\/h2>\n<div class=\"su-row\"><div class=\"su-column su-column-size-1-2\"><div class=\"su-column-inner su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\n<strong>Pros<\/strong><br \/>\n<div class=\"su-list\" style=\"margin-left:0px\">\n<ul>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> Address specific tasks or functions within networks<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> Ensures <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/631\/interoperability\">interoperability<\/a> across devices and platforms<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> Includes <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/5507\/encryption\">encryption<\/a>\/authentication for secure communication<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> Simplifies device management and monitoring<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-column su-column-size-1-2 pros_icons_\"><div class=\"su-column-inner su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\n<strong>Cons<\/strong><br \/>\n<div class=\"su-list\" style=\"margin-left:0px\">\n<ul>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-remove\" style=\"color:#e31f28\"><\/i> Can introduce delays<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-remove\" style=\"color:#e31f28\"><\/i> May have security vulnerabilities if poorly implemented<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-remove\" style=\"color:#e31f28\"><\/i> Requires expertise for setup<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-remove\" style=\"color:#e31f28\"><\/i> Some protocols need extensive configuration<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<h2><span id=\"the_bottom_line\">The Bottom Line<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The protocol definition refers to standardized rules enabling communication between systems, devices, or software. Protocols like HTTP and SSL provide a framework for tasks such as data transmission, security, and device communication. By breaking down complex processes into smaller tasks, protocols ensure a reliable exchange of data.<\/p>\n<p>Protocols are important for network functionality, enabling encryption, data management, and streaming. While they can be exploited in cyberattacks, proper implementation and regular updates mitigate risks. Despite challenges such as setup complexity and potential vulnerabilities, protocols help ensure efficient and secure digital communications.<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"faqs\">FAQs<\/span><\/h2>\n<div class=\"man_faq_sec\" itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/FAQPage\"><\/time><section class=\"ms_faq ms_card \" ><div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><div class=\"accordionButton\"><h3 itemprop=\"name\">What is protocol in simple terms?<\/h3> <\/div>\n<div class=\"accordionContent\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\" style=\"display:none;\"><p itemprop=\"text\">The meaning of protocol is a standard set of rules to enable communication between systems, devices, or software.<\/p>\r\n                <\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<section class=\"ms_faq ms_card \" ><div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><div class=\"accordionButton\"><h3 itemprop=\"name\">What is an example of a protocol?<\/h3> <\/div>\n<div class=\"accordionContent\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\" style=\"display:none;\"><p itemprop=\"text\">Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) is an example of an Internet protocol.<\/p>\r\n                <\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<section class=\"ms_faq ms_card \" ><div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><div class=\"accordionButton\"><h3 itemprop=\"name\">Can different protocols be used together?<\/h3> <\/div>\n<div class=\"accordionContent\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\" style=\"display:none;\"><p itemprop=\"text\">Yes. A single process can be handled by more than one protocol simultaneously. This coordination of protocols creates a protocol family.<\/p>\r\n                <\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<section class=\"ms_faq ms_card \" ><div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><div class=\"accordionButton\"><h3 itemprop=\"name\">What are the 4 types of protocol?<\/h3> <\/div>\n<div class=\"accordionContent\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\" style=\"display:none;\"><p itemprop=\"text\">The four main types of protocols in computer networks are TCP, IP, HTTP\/HTTPS (SSL\/TLS), and FTP.<\/p>\r\n                <\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<section class=\"ms_faq ms_card \" ><div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><div class=\"accordionButton\"><h3 itemprop=\"name\">What is protocol in networking?<\/h3> <\/div>\n<div class=\"accordionContent\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\" style=\"display:none;\"><p itemprop=\"text\">In networking, a protocol is a standardized set of rules that define communication between two or more devices over a network.<\/p>\r\n                <\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<div class=\"reference-content\">\n<div class=\"reference-heading reference-content-collapsible-heading\">\n<h2><span id=\"references\">References<\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"reference-content-body\">\n<ol>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.crowdstrike.com\/en-us\/cybersecurity-101\/cyberattacks\/golden-ticket-attack\/\" target=\"_blank\">What is a Golden Ticket Attack?<\/a> (CrowdStrike)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What is Protocol? Protocol, in computers and technology, is a broad definition used to describe any standard set of rules that enables communication between systems, devices, or software. Computer protocols ensure successful data transmission by defining steps and processes for communication between systems. For example, network protocols like hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP) govern the exchange [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":286940,"featured_media":365003,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_lmt_disableupdate":"no","_lmt_disable":"","om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"footnotes":""},"definitioncat":[219],"class_list":["post-3910","definition","type-definition","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","definitioncat-networks"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v24.2 (Yoast SEO v24.5) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>What is Protocol? Definition, Types &amp; Use Cases - Techopedia<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Protocol is a standard set of rules to enable communication between systems, devices, or software. 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