Most common network protocols: what they are, their types, and how they work

Network protocols They are like the language that devices use to understand and communicate with each other within a computer network. Thanks to these common rules, your computer, mobile phone, printer, or cloud server can reliably send and receive information. Although we don't see or think about them every day, they are the invisible pillars that make the internet and modern digital communications possible. If you'd like to delve deeper into other related technical aspects, you can explore more about the most common network protocols.

Have you ever wondered how an email can reach its recipient exactly, how a video call can stay stable, or how a simple search on Google Show results in seconds? All of this is achieved thanks to the coordinated action of different network protocols. In this article, we'll tell you what they are, how they work, which are the most commonly used, and how digital communications are organized.

What is a network protocol and why is it so important?

A network protocol is a set of standardized rules and procedures that allow devices on a network to communicate with each other. exchange data in a consistent, secure, and efficient mannerWithout these protocols, each system would operate in its own way, making it impossible to establish clear communication between them.

Among its main functions we find:

• Define the format of the messages: They structure how the information should be organized so that it can be understood by the receiver.
• Establish how errors are handled that may arise during data transmission.
• Plan synchronization between devices, ensuring that both are prepared to send and receive information.
• Regulate the opening and closing of sessions: That is to say, There during which the devices are in communication.

Protocols ensure, for example, that when you view a website in your browser, everything loads correctly, or that you can connect to a Wi-Fi network without having to manually configure each parameter. They are essential at both the home and business levels, and are also key in critical sectors such as healthcare, logistics, and telecommunications. For those interested in network management, it's helpful to learn more about them. types of firewalls, which can complement the use of network protocols.

How do network protocols work?

The operation of a protocol can be imagined as a series of well-defined steps that all devices follow. When a device wants to send a message, it must follow a protocol that dictates:

• How to divide information into small fragments or data packets.
• What route will those packages follow until they reach their destination.
• How they will be reassembled upon arrival.
• What to do if someone gets lost along the way.

Every packet that travels through the network contains additional information Beyond the content: its origin, destination, order within the set, and error-control mechanisms. This model makes it possible to send large volumes of information over different routes, regardless of the type of network being used.

In fact, thanks to this architecture, you can send a video from your smartphone using 4G, while another user receives it using fiber optics. Since both systems understand the same protocol, communication flows seamlessly. If you'd like to learn more about network video streaming, you can visit stream videos online.

The OSI model: organizing communications into layers

To facilitate the development and understanding of network protocols, a standard model called OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) modelThis model divides the entire communication process into seven layers, where each layer is responsible for a specific function and communicates with the layers above and below it.

• Layer 1 – Physical: It transmits bits through physical media, such as cables or wireless signals.
• Layer 2 – Data Link: Ensures that data arrives without errors between two directly connected nodes.
• Layer 3 – Network: Determines which route the data will follow to reach the destination.
• Layer 4 – Transport: Ensures that data arrives complete and organized.
• Layer 5 – Session: Manages connections and sessions between two devices.
• Layer 6 – Presentation: It is responsible for the formatting, encryption and compression of data.
• Layer 7 – Application: It is the layer that interacts directly with the end user (browsers, apps, etc.).

This model serves as a conceptual guide, although in practice, many protocols combine functions from several layers. For example, the TCP/IP model, although also layered, integrates the OSI logic in a more simplified way.

Fundamental protocols according to their layer

Below, we explain the main protocols according to their function or layer within the OSI model. This will help you better understand how they work together and how each contributes an essential element to digital communication.

Protocols at the physical and data link layers

In these first two layers is the most technical part of the network: how data is transmitted from one device to another and how it is converted into understandable signals for the hardware.

• Ethernet: It is the standard protocol for wired networks. It defines how information is transmitted over LAN cables.
• Wi-Fi: Wireless version, defines how devices connect to each other without cables.
• PPP (Point to Point Protocol): Used in point-to-point connections, such as old dial-up connections, to establish direct communication between two nodes.
• ARP (Address Resolution Protocol): Translates IP addresses to addresses MAC within a local network so that data reaches the correct device.
• STP (Spanning Tree Protocol): Prevent loops in complex LANs by disconnecting redundant links that could cause problems.

There are also variants such as RARP e InARP, which perform inverse ARP functions in specific cases. If you're interested in networking, you could look into How NTP servers work, which are relevant in network synchronization.

Protocols at the network layer

In this layer, key elements for the packet routing and route definition through the global network.

• IP (Internet Protocol): One of the basic protocols, it assigns unique addresses (IPv4 or IPv6) and is responsible for routing packets to their destination.
• ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol): It complements IP as a diagnostic system, sending error messages or confirming whether packets have arrived.
• RIP (Routing Information Protocol): It helps routers exchange information about the best routes.
• DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol): Automates the assignment of IP addresses within a local network without manual intervention.

It is also possible to find tools such as IGMP o MLD that optimize multicast traffic, very useful in environments such as IPTV or video conferencing. If you're interested in learning more about networks, check out how an ad-hoc network can be useful.

Protocols in the transport layer

This layer has a key function: keep order y avoid errors in transmission. Two main protocols stand out here:

• TCP (Transmission Control Protocol): Ensures that all packages arrive error-free, complete, and in the correct order. Ideal for emails, web browsing, file downloads, etc.
• User Datagram Protocol (UDP): It's faster because it skips certain checks. However, it doesn't guarantee perfect delivery, which makes it ideal for video games courses streaming or video calls.

An emerging protocol called also appears on the scene HERE C, developed by Google, which combines the security of TLS with the efficiency of UDP to offer even faster web access. If you're concerned about latency in online games, you might consider The best VPNs to reduce lag.

Protocols at the application layer

These protocols are the ones we are most familiar with in our daily lives, as they interact directly with the applications we use constantly.

• HTTP: The Web's core protocol. It allows web browsers and servers to communicate.
• HTTPS: Secure version encrypted with TLS, used on websites with sensitive data.
• FTP (File Transfer Protocol): Used to upload and download files between clients and servers.
• TFTP (Trivial FTP): Lighter, unauthenticated variant, used in network environments with simple devices such as routers or switches.
• SMTP: Standard protocol for sending emails.
• POP3 / IMAP: To receive and manage emails from remote servers.
• DNS: Translates web addresses (domains) into IP addresses, acting as a global Internet address book.
• SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol): Facilitates the management and monitoring of network devices.

Each of these protocols performs a specific function, and in many cases, they are used together to ensure a smooth experience when browsing or using any connected application. If you're interested in network configurations, you can also research Solutions for connection problems in Windows 10.

Protocols according to transmission type: unicast, multicast and broadcast

Another way to classify network protocols is according to how information is transmitted between devicesThere are three main types:

• Unicast: Communication between a single sender and a single receiver. This is the most common (for example, when opening a website).
• Multicast: The sender sends data to a specific group of recipients. Very useful for streaming or video conferencing with multiple users without overloading the network.
• broadcast: The information is sent to all devices on a local network. It is often used to send configuration or discovery information.

Depending on the need, a network can use these three methods in a complementary manner to avoid congestion and improve performance.

Connection modes: simplex, half-duplex, and full-duplex

When talking about how information flows, there is another very interesting classification: the Transmission ModeThese are its variants:

• Simplex: Data travels in one direction only (like a radio station).
• Semi-duplex: It can transmit in both directions, but not at the same time (like a walkie-talkie).
• Full duplex: Simultaneous two-way transmission (like a phone call).

In modern networks, full-duplex connections are typically used to ensure uninterrupted, real-time communications.

Open protocols vs. proprietary protocols

Not all protocols have the same level of accessibility and use. Some are open and other Owners.

• Open protocols: They are public and can be freely implemented by any developer. They encourage interoperability and technological evolution (e.g., TCP/IP, HTTP).
• Proprietary protocols: They are developed by a company and may require licensing. Their specifications are not always public, which can limit compatibility (for example, some Microsoft or Apple protocols).

In general, modern networks increasingly opt for open standards to ensure compatibility between devices from multiple manufacturers. If you're interested in improving your network experience, consider learning more. How to fix network errors when downloading with Chrome.

Advantages and disadvantages of network protocols

Like everything in computing, network protocols also have both benefits and limitationsKnowing them helps you choose the most appropriate ones for each case.

Advantages

• Interoperability: They allow devices from different manufacturers to communicate seamlessly.
• Scalability: They adapt well to the growth of a network, whether home or business.
• Common Standards: Its extensive use guarantees worldwide compatibility.

Disadvantages

• Complexity: Implementing them correctly may require some technical level, especially in large environments.
• Safety: Some older protocols do not include encryption, making them vulnerable if not properly protected.
• Performance: Very strict protocols like TCP can introduce some latency in very dynamic situations.

Network protocol implementation ranges from home setups to large corporate networks. In a home environment, for example, DHCP makes it easier for your mobile devices and computers obtain IP automatically, while HTTP and DNS mediate every time you visit a web page.

In businesses, this structure is much more complex and requires constant planning, monitoring, and maintenance. Mechanisms such as VLANs, VPNs, firewalls, and specific policies are implemented to ensure security and efficiency. Some essential steps include:

• Network design: What topology to use, where to place routers, what protocols to use depending on the environment.
• device configuration: From switches to servers that implement the appropriate protocols.
• Supervision and monitoring: To detect faults, bottlenecks and maintain performance.
• Update: Adapt the network to new protocol versions that improve security and performance.

As you can see, network protocols are much more than simple technical standards. They're the silent machinery that keeps our digital lives connected, making everything from video calls to accessing a website thousands of miles away possible.

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Isaac

Passionate writer about the world of bytes and technology in general. I love sharing my knowledge through writing, and that's what I'll do on this blog, show you all the most interesting things about gadgets, software, hardware, tech trends, and more. My goal is to help you navigate the digital world in a simple and entertaining way.