Understanding TCP/IP

As we mentioned in the introduction, computers use a protocol as a common language for communication. A protocol is a set of rules that govern communications, much like a language in human terms. Of the myriad protocols out there, the key one to understand is the TCP/IP suite, which is actually a collection of different protocols that work together to deliver connectivity. Consequently, it’s the only one listed on the A+ exam objectives. In the following sections, we’ll start with a look at its overall structure and then move into key protocols within the suite.

TCP/IP Structure

The Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) suite is the most popular network protocol in use today, thanks mostly to the rise of ...

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