List of Essential Internet Protocols
Cheat Sheet
Essential Internet Protocols
An internet protocol is a set of rules that controls how data is sent and received over the internet. There are 11 essential protocols to know:
- HTTP: Hypertext Transfer Protocol - for web browsing
- HTTPS: HTTP Secure - encrypted web browsing
- FTP: File Transfer Protocol - transferring files between computers
- FTPS: FTP Secure - secure file transfer
- SMTP: Simple Mail Transfer Protocol - sending emails
- POP: Post Office Protocol - retrieving emails from a server
- IMAP: Internet Message Access Protocol - accessing emails on a server
- TCP: Transmission Control Protocol - reliable data delivery
- UDP: User Datagram Protocol - faster but less reliable data delivery
- XMPP: Extensible Messaging and Presence Protocol - instant messaging
- P2P: Peer-to-Peer - direct communication between users
Here are the essential protocols used in our daily digital activities.
| Protocol | Full Form | Description |
|---|---|---|
| HTTP | Hypertext Transfer Protocol | For web browsing. |
| HTTPS | Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure | Secure web browsing with encryption. |
| FTP | File Transfer Protocol | Transferring files between computers. |
| FTPS | File Transfer Protocol Secure | Secure file transfer. |
| SMTP | Simple Mail Transfer Protocol | Sending emails. |
| POP | Post Office Protocol | Retrieving emails from a server. |
| IMAP | Internet Message Access Protocol | Accessing emails on a server. |
| TCP | Transmission Control Protocol | Reliable data delivery. |
| UDP | User Datagram Protocol | Faster, less reliable data delivery. |
| XMPP | Extensible Messaging and Presence Protocol | Instant messaging. |
| P2P | Peer-to-Peer | Direct communication between users. |
Pop Quiz
You need to send an email to a colleague. Which protocol handles the sending of that email?
Last updated on • Talha