TCP
Definition
The Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) is one of the main protocols of the Internet protocol suite. It provides reliable, ordered, and error-checked delivery of a stream of octets (bytes) between applications running on hosts communicating via an IP network.
Why It Matters
TCP is the workhorse of reliable internet communication. It ensures that all the data you send or receive arrives correctly and in the right order. It is used for applications where data integrity is critical, like web browsing, email, and file transfers.
Contextual Example
When you download a file, TCP breaks the file into packets, numbers them, and sends them. On the receiving end, TCP reassembles the packets in the correct order and requests re-transmission of any that were lost or corrupted along the way.
Common Misunderstandings
- TCP is a "connection-oriented" protocol. It establishes a connection (a "three-way handshake") before sending data.
- It is contrasted with UDP, which is a simpler, faster, but unreliable protocol.