Network communication is defined by various network protocols. A network protocol is a formal set of rules, conventions and data structure that governs how computers exchange information over a network. In other words, protocol is a standard procedure and format that two data communication devices must understand, accept and use to be able to talk to each other.

A wide variety of network protocols exist, which are defined by many standard organizations worldwide and technology vendors over years of technology evolution and developments. One of the most popular network protocol suites is TCP/IP , which is the heart of Internetworking communications. In the following table, we provided a simple dictionary for all major protocols in today's network communications. Detail descriptions of each protocols could be found in the corresponding linked pages.

If you need to find network protocols according to their functional suite or origination families, Click here now.

For the network security dictionary, please click here.

For wireless terms and dictionary, please click here.

For computer hardware terms and glossary, please click here.

Protocol Dictionary Table Index

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z Numbers