Network Protocols: Difference between revisions

Latest revision as of 09:44, 6 July 2025

Network Protocols is a set of formal rules and conventions that delineate how data is transmitted and received over a network. These protocols govern the interaction between different hardware and software components within a network and ensure effective communication among devices. Network protocols are essential for establishing connectivity, facilitating communication, and ensuring data integrity and security. They are categorized into different types based on their functionalities and the layers of the networking model in which they operate.

Background

The concept of network protocols emerged in the early days of computer networking, amidst the evolution of the Internet. As multiple computers started to connect and share information, it became crucial to develop standardized methods to enable these devices to communicate effectively. The development of protocols can be traced back to the ARPANET project in the late 1960s, which laid the groundwork for the TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol), a suite of interconnected protocols that remains integral to modern networking.

The importance of protocols has grown with the expansion of the Internet and the diversification of devices that rely on network connectivity. Today, network protocols encompass a vast array of specifications governing everything from basic communication to advanced security measures, spanning across multiple areas such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and remote communication.

Types of Network Protocols

Network protocols can be broadly categorized based on various criteria, including functionality, architecture, and purpose. The following sections explore key types of network protocols, including communication protocols, security protocols, and transport protocols.

Communication Protocols

Communication protocols serve as the foundation for transmitting data between devices. They define the rules that determine how data is formatted, transmitted, compressed, and error-checked across various types of networks.

The foundational protocols for communication on the Internet are encapsulated in the TCP/IP suite. TCP ensures reliable and ordered delivery of messages, while IP manages the addressing and routing of packets. Together, they form the backbone of Internet communication.

In addition to TCP/IP, several other communication protocols exist, such as the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), which enables the transfer of hypertext documents on the World Wide Web, and File Transfer Protocol (FTP), which enables the transfer of files between systems in a network.

Security Protocols

Security protocols are critical for protecting data integrity and privacy in network communications. They provide mechanisms for encrypting data, ensuring secure transmission, and authenticating users.

One of the most widely used security protocols is the Secure Socket Layer (SSL) and its successor, Transport Layer Security (TLS). These protocols establish a secure channel between two devices, encrypting data in transit to prevent interception by unauthorized parties.

Another important protocol is the Internet Protocol Security (IPSec), which is used for securing Internet Protocol (IP) communications. IPSec operates at the network layer and encrypts data packets between nodes, making it suitable for Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) that route traffic securely over public networks.

Protocol Layers

Networking protocols are often structured in layers, which helps simplify and organize the networking processes. The most widely referenced model is the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model, which delineates seven layers, including the physical, data link, network, transport, session, presentation, and application layers.

OSI Model

The OSI model serves as a conceptual framework for understanding how different networking protocols interact. Each layer provides specific functions and communicates with the layers directly above and below it.

The physical layer pertains to the physical medium of transmission, such as cables or wireless signals. The data link layer manages node-to-node communication and error detection, operating with MAC addresses. The network layer is responsible for routing packets between devices, while the transport layer ensures complete data transfer and reliability through mechanisms like segmentation and flow control. The session layer manages connections between applications, the presentation layer formats data for the application layer, and the application layer interacts directly with user applications.

TCP/IP Model

The TCP/IP model, which underpins the Internet, consists of four layers: the link layer, internet layer, transport layer, and application layer. It is more simplified than the OSI model and is directly aligned with the architecture of the Internet.

In this model, the link layer handles the physical transmission of data, the internet layer manages addressing and routing (primarily through the IP protocol), the transport layer ensures end-to-end communication, and the application layer provides services like HTTP and FTP for user applications. The TCP/IP model's robustness and efficiency have contributed to its widespread adoption, making it integral to the functioning of the Internet.

Implementation of Network Protocols

The implementation of network protocols varies based on the requirements of the environment and the devices involved. Various operating systems, networking equipment, and software use these protocols to establish connectivity and facilitate communication. The following subsections explore how different environments integrate network protocols.

In Operating Systems

Most modern operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and various Unix-based systems, have built-in support for a wide range of network protocols. This support enables devices running these operating systems to communicate over local and wide-area networks, as well as over the Internet.

Networking stacks within operating systems typically include various layers of the TCP/IP model, with interfaces to applications that rely on networking for communication. For example, applications like web browsers, email clients, and file sharing programs depend on protocols such as HTTP, SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol), and FTP that are implemented within the operating system's networking stack.

In Network Devices

Networking hardware, such as routers, switches, and firewalls, also implement network protocols to facilitate communication. Routers use protocols such as RIP (Routing Information Protocol) and OSPF (Open Shortest Path First) to navigate and direct traffic across interconnected networks.

Switches primarily operate at the data link layer, forwarding packets based on MAC addresses for efficient data handling within local area networks. Firewalls implement security protocols that scrutinize incoming and outgoing network traffic, ensuring compliance with pre-defined security policies.

In Web Applications

Web applications commonly rely on a stack of network protocols to function effectively. On the client side, browsers initiate communication with servers using the HTTP or HTTPS protocol, while on the server side, these requests are processed through server protocols.

For instance, when a user accesses a web application, the browser sends an HTTP request to the server hosting the application. The server processes this request, and responds with the appropriate data formatted in HTML, which is displayed in the browser. This process can involve multiple protocols at various layers, such as DNS (Domain Name System) for resolving domain names into IP addresses and SSL/TLS for secure connections.

Challenges and Limitations

Despite the efficacy of network protocols, several challenges and limitations affect their operation and implementation. The following subsections discuss issues such as interoperability, security vulnerabilities, and scalability.

Interoperability

As the Internet and networking technologies continue to evolve, interoperability among different protocols and devices remains a significant challenge. Many devices use proprietary protocols that may not communicate effectively with standard protocols, leading to compatibility issues.

Efforts to standardize protocols, such as those developed by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), have aimed to improve interoperability. However, the plethora of devices and applications requires robust solutions that can bridge gaps between diverse standards.

Security Vulnerabilities

While security protocols are designed to protect data and communications, they are not impervious to vulnerabilities. Cybersecurity threats such as man-in-the-middle attacks, packet sniffing, and denial-of-service (DoS) attacks can exploit weaknesses in networking protocols.

Continuous monitoring and updating of security protocols are essential to addressing these vulnerabilities. For instance, over the years, vulnerabilities in SSL and earlier versions of TLS have prompted the development of more secure iterations, including the adoption of TLS 1.2 and 1.3.

Scalability

As networks grow and the number of connected devices increases, scalability becomes increasingly vital. Some protocols may face difficulties handling a large number of simultaneous connections or high data throughput, leading to latency and performance issues.

Protocols like TCP, while adept at ensuring reliable data transfer, may introduce overheads that affect performance in high-traffic environments. In response, alternative protocols such as QUIC, developed by Google, are being explored to provide faster and more efficient data transfer over the Internet, particularly for real-time applications.

Real-world Examples

Numerous real-world applications and systems heavily rely on various network protocols for efficient functioning. Each example reveals the versatility and necessity of these protocols in everyday tech environments.

The Internet

The Internet's vast network of interconnected devices hinged on protocols such as TCP/IP, HTTP, and DNS. Each layer of the TCP/IP model plays a significant role in facilitating communication across diverse networks globally. The sheer scale of the Internet necessitates robust and adaptive protocols to handle complex routing, data integrity, and security.

Corporate Networks

In corporate settings, organizations utilize various network protocols to maintain internal communications and secure transactions. A combination of Ethernet (for local area connections), IP (for data routing), and VPN protocols (for secure remote access) forms the backbone of corporate networking infrastructures.

Moreover, specific industries may employ specialized protocols tailored to their operational requirements. For example, healthcare organizations may utilize HL7 (Health Level Seven) standards for exchanging medical information while ensuring compliance with privacy regulations.

Internet of Things (IoT)

The emergence of the Internet of Things (IoT) has introduced unique challenges and opportunities for network protocols. With billions of devices connected, protocols designed for low-power, low-bandwidth communication, such as MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport) and CoAP (Constrained Application Protocol), are becoming increasingly prominent. These protocols cater to the specific communication needs of IoT devices, which often operate in constrained environments and demand efficient data transmission.

References

@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
-== Introduction ==
+'''Network Protocols''' is a set of formal rules and conventions that delineate how data is transmitted and received over a network. These protocols govern the interaction between different hardware and software components within a network and ensure effective communication among devices. Network protocols are essential for establishing connectivity, facilitating communication, and ensuring data integrity and security. They are categorized into different types based on their functionalities and the layers of the networking model in which they operate.
-A network protocol is a set of rules and conventions that governs how data is transmitted and received across a network. These protocols define the formats, order of messages, and methods of error handling, as well as the actions taken in response to various events. Protocols are fundamental to network communication and are critical for enabling devices from different manufacturers and systems to communicate effectively. The design and implementation of network protocols have been the subject of extensive research and development, evolving over time to meet the needs of an increasingly interconnected world.
-== History or Background ==
+== Background ==
-The development of network protocols can be traced back to the early days of computer networking in the 1960s. The need for standardized communications arose as multiple computer systems were connected to form larger networks. One of the earliest and most influential networking protocols was the ARPANET, developed by the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA) of the United States Department of Defense. This network utilized the Network Control Protocol (NCP) to facilitate communication.
-In the 1970s, the TCP/IP model was introduced, which laid the foundation for modern networking protocols. The Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and Internet Protocol (IP) emerged as key components, allowing for reliable data transmission over the burgeoning internet. The adoption of TCP/IP as the standard protocol suite for the internet in the late 1980s signified a major milestone, enabling disparate networks to interconnect and communicate.
+The concept of network protocols emerged in the early days of computer networking, amidst the evolution of the Internet. As multiple computers started to connect and share information, it became crucial to develop standardized methods to enable these devices to communicate effectively. The development of protocols can be traced back to the ARPANET project in the late 1960s, which laid the groundwork for the TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol), a suite of interconnected protocols that remains integral to modern networking.
-Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, numerous protocols were developed to address various networking needs. For example, the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) was created to facilitate the transfer of web pages, while the File Transfer Protocol (FTP) was developed for transferring files over the internet. The Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP) emerged to handle email transmission. Each of these protocols addressed specific requirements of networked communication and contributed to the rapid expansion of the internet.
+The importance of protocols has grown with the expansion of the Internet and the diversification of devices that rely on network connectivity. Today, network protocols encompass a vast array of specifications governing everything from basic communication to advanced security measures, spanning across multiple areas such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and remote communication.
-== Design or Architecture ==
+== Types of Network Protocols ==
-The design of network protocols usually follows specific architectural models, each serving as a framework for communication between devices. The most widely recognized model is the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model, which divides networking functions into seven layers—from physical transmission at Layer 1 to application-level interactions at Layer 7. This layered approach allows for interoperability among different systems and devices, as each layer has defined responsibilities. The OSI model's layers include:
-* Layer 1: Physical Layer - This layer deals with the physical connection between devices, including cables, switches, and signaling.
-* Layer 2: Data Link Layer - Responsible for node-to-node data transfer, error detection, and frame synchronization.
-* Layer 3: Network Layer - Manages routing and forwarding of packets across networks, most commonly using the Internet Protocol (IP).
-* Layer 4: Transport Layer - Provides reliable data transfer services, including segmentation, flow control, and error correction, typically using protocols like TCP and UDP (User Datagram Protocol).
-* Layer 5: Session Layer - Manages user sessions, establishing, maintaining, and terminating connections.
-* Layer 6: Presentation Layer - Translates data formats and performs encryption and compression.
-* Layer 7: Application Layer - Contains high-level protocols for specific applications and services, such as HTTP, FTP, and SMTP.
-The TCP/IP model, which is the practical implementation of networking on the internet, comprises four layers: Link (also known as Network Interface), Internet, Transport, and Application.
+Network protocols can be broadly categorized based on various criteria, including functionality, architecture, and purpose. The following sections explore key types of network protocols, including communication protocols, security protocols, and transport protocols.
-== Usage and Implementation ==
+=== Communication Protocols ===
-Network protocols are implemented across a variety of devices and systems, ranging from personal computers and servers to routers, switches, and other networking equipment. Their implementation can be categorized into different types based on their use case, including:
-* **Transport Protocols**: These protocols are responsible for the end-to-end communication between devices. TCP and UDP are the most prominent transport protocols. TCP is connection-oriented, ensuring reliable data transmission through acknowledgments and retransmissions, while UDP is connectionless, prioritizing speed over reliability.
-* **Network Protocols**: These protocols manage the routing of data between disparate networks. IP serves as the backbone of this protocol, defining the addressing scheme and the structure of packets.
-* **Application Protocols**: High-level protocols such as HTTP, FTP, and SMTP provide specific functionalities to applications. They leverage the services of transport protocols to facilitate services like web browsing, file transfers, and email communications.
-* **Link Layer Protocols**: These protocols govern data exchange on a local network. Examples include Ethernet for wired connections and Wi-Fi for wireless networking. These protocols ensure that data is framed appropriately for local transmission.
-The implementation of network protocols also necessitates compliance with standards established by organizations such as the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). These standards facilitate interoperability among devices and systems from different manufacturers, ensuring that communications adhere to common protocols and frameworks.
+Communication protocols serve as the foundation for transmitting data between devices. They define the rules that determine how data is formatted, transmitted, compressed, and error-checked across various types of networks.
-== Real-world Examples or Comparisons ==
+The foundational protocols for communication on the Internet are encapsulated in the TCP/IP suite. TCP ensures reliable and ordered delivery of messages, while IP manages the addressing and routing of packets. Together, they form the backbone of Internet communication.
-Network protocols can be seen in various applications and environments, demonstrating their versatility and adaptability. Some real-world examples include:
-* **HTTP vs. HTTPS**: The Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) is used for transmitting web pages, but it lacks security features. HTTPS (HTTP Secure) integrates SSL/TLS to encrypt the data transmitted between browsers and servers, providing a secure communication channel.
-* **FTP vs. SFTP**: File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is commonly used for transferring files over the internet. However, FTP transmits data in plaintext, exposing it to interception. Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP), on the other hand, runs over a secure connection, encrypting data during transmission to enhance security.
-* **TCP vs. UDP**: In online gaming, where low latency is crucial, UDP is often preferred due to its speed and efficiency, despite sacrificing some reliability. Conversely, in applications such as file transfer or email where data integrity is paramount, TCP is preferred for its reliability and error correction mechanisms.
-Other noteworthy network protocols include the Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP), which is essential for error messaging and network diagnostics, and the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), which automates the assignment of IP addresses to devices on a network.
+In addition to TCP/IP, several other communication protocols exist, such as the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), which enables the transfer of hypertext documents on the World Wide Web, and File Transfer Protocol (FTP), which enables the transfer of files between systems in a network.
-== Criticism or Controversies ==
+=== Security Protocols ===
-As technology evolves, various controversies and criticisms surrounding network protocols have emerged. Some of the primary concerns include:
-* **Security Vulnerabilities**: Many early network protocols were developed without adequate security considerations. As a result, numerous vulnerabilities have been discovered, leading to exploits such as packet sniffing, denial of service attacks, and man-in-the-middle attacks. For example, the vulnerability of unencrypted protocols, like FTP, has led to widespread use of secure versions like SFTP.
-* **Obsolescence of Legacy Protocols**: As new protocols are introduced, older protocols struggle to remain relevant. For instance, the transition from IPv4 to IPv6 has become a contentious issue due to the substantial changes required in network infrastructure. While IPv4 is still widely used, its limitations regarding address space have led to pressure for migration to IPv6.
-* **Complexity and Standardization**: The proliferation of network protocols can lead to confusion, as manufacturers may implement their own variations or proprietary protocols that hinder interoperability. Efforts to standardize networking through organizations like the IETF have alleviated some of these issues, but ongoing debates regarding best practices and protocol design continue.
-== Influence or Impact ==
+Security protocols are critical for protecting data integrity and privacy in network communications. They provide mechanisms for encrypting data, ensuring secure transmission, and authenticating users.
-Network protocols have significantly influenced various fields, including business, education, healthcare, and entertainment. The ability to communicate efficiently and effectively across networks has transformed how organizations operate and deliver services. Some notable impacts of network protocols include:
-* **Global Connectivity**: Network protocols have facilitated the creation of a globally interconnected internet, enabling people and devices to communicate regardless of geographical barriers. This connectivity has fostered unprecedented collaboration, commerce, and information exchange.
-* **Innovation in Technology**: The establishment of robust networking protocols has paved the way for technological innovations such as cloud computing, the Internet of Things (IoT), and telecommuting. These innovations rely heavily on standardized protocols to operate and deliver services effectively.
-* **Economic Development**: As businesses increasingly rely on online services, the economic impact of network protocols cannot be overstated. Industries such as e-commerce, online gaming, and streaming services have flourished due to reliable and efficient communication protocols.
-Through various applications, network protocols continue to evolve, adapting to new technologies and user requirements while shaping the future of digital communication.
+One of the most widely used security protocols is the Secure Socket Layer (SSL) and its successor, Transport Layer Security (TLS). These protocols establish a secure channel between two devices, encrypting data in transit to prevent interception by unauthorized parties.
+Another important protocol is the Internet Protocol Security (IPSec), which is used for securing Internet Protocol (IP) communications. IPSec operates at the network layer and encrypts data packets between nodes, making it suitable for Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) that route traffic securely over public networks.
+== Protocol Layers ==
+Networking protocols are often structured in layers, which helps simplify and organize the networking processes. The most widely referenced model is the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model, which delineates seven layers, including the physical, data link, network, transport, session, presentation, and application layers.
+=== OSI Model ===
+The OSI model serves as a conceptual framework for understanding how different networking protocols interact. Each layer provides specific functions and communicates with the layers directly above and below it.
+The physical layer pertains to the physical medium of transmission, such as cables or wireless signals. The data link layer manages node-to-node communication and error detection, operating with MAC addresses. The network layer is responsible for routing packets between devices, while the transport layer ensures complete data transfer and reliability through mechanisms like segmentation and flow control. The session layer manages connections between applications, the presentation layer formats data for the application layer, and the application layer interacts directly with user applications.
+=== TCP/IP Model ===
+The TCP/IP model, which underpins the Internet, consists of four layers: the link layer, internet layer, transport layer, and application layer. It is more simplified than the OSI model and is directly aligned with the architecture of the Internet.
+In this model, the link layer handles the physical transmission of data, the internet layer manages addressing and routing (primarily through the IP protocol), the transport layer ensures end-to-end communication, and the application layer provides services like HTTP and FTP for user applications. The TCP/IP model's robustness and efficiency have contributed to its widespread adoption, making it integral to the functioning of the Internet.
+== Implementation of Network Protocols ==
+The implementation of network protocols varies based on the requirements of the environment and the devices involved. Various operating systems, networking equipment, and software use these protocols to establish connectivity and facilitate communication. The following subsections explore how different environments integrate network protocols.
+=== In Operating Systems ===
+Most modern operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and various Unix-based systems, have built-in support for a wide range of network protocols. This support enables devices running these operating systems to communicate over local and wide-area networks, as well as over the Internet.
+Networking stacks within operating systems typically include various layers of the TCP/IP model, with interfaces to applications that rely on networking for communication. For example, applications like web browsers, email clients, and file sharing programs depend on protocols such as HTTP, SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol), and FTP that are implemented within the operating system's networking stack.
+=== In Network Devices ===
+Networking hardware, such as routers, switches, and firewalls, also implement network protocols to facilitate communication. Routers use protocols such as RIP (Routing Information Protocol) and OSPF (Open Shortest Path First) to navigate and direct traffic across interconnected networks.
+Switches primarily operate at the data link layer, forwarding packets based on MAC addresses for efficient data handling within local area networks. Firewalls implement security protocols that scrutinize incoming and outgoing network traffic, ensuring compliance with pre-defined security policies.
+=== In Web Applications ===
+Web applications commonly rely on a stack of network protocols to function effectively. On the client side, browsers initiate communication with servers using the HTTP or HTTPS protocol, while on the server side, these requests are processed through server protocols.
+For instance, when a user accesses a web application, the browser sends an HTTP request to the server hosting the application. The server processes this request, and responds with the appropriate data formatted in HTML, which is displayed in the browser. This process can involve multiple protocols at various layers, such as DNS (Domain Name System) for resolving domain names into IP addresses and SSL/TLS for secure connections.
+== Challenges and Limitations ==
+Despite the efficacy of network protocols, several challenges and limitations affect their operation and implementation. The following subsections discuss issues such as interoperability, security vulnerabilities, and scalability.
+=== Interoperability ===
+As the Internet and networking technologies continue to evolve, interoperability among different protocols and devices remains a significant challenge. Many devices use proprietary protocols that may not communicate effectively with standard protocols, leading to compatibility issues.
+Efforts to standardize protocols, such as those developed by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), have aimed to improve interoperability. However, the plethora of devices and applications requires robust solutions that can bridge gaps between diverse standards.
+=== Security Vulnerabilities ===
+While security protocols are designed to protect data and communications, they are not impervious to vulnerabilities. Cybersecurity threats such as man-in-the-middle attacks, packet sniffing, and denial-of-service (DoS) attacks can exploit weaknesses in networking protocols.
+Continuous monitoring and updating of security protocols are essential to addressing these vulnerabilities. For instance, over the years, vulnerabilities in SSL and earlier versions of TLS have prompted the development of more secure iterations, including the adoption of TLS 1.2 and 1.3.
+=== Scalability ===
+As networks grow and the number of connected devices increases, scalability becomes increasingly vital. Some protocols may face difficulties handling a large number of simultaneous connections or high data throughput, leading to latency and performance issues.
+Protocols like TCP, while adept at ensuring reliable data transfer, may introduce overheads that affect performance in high-traffic environments. In response, alternative protocols such as QUIC, developed by Google, are being explored to provide faster and more efficient data transfer over the Internet, particularly for real-time applications.
+== Real-world Examples ==
+Numerous real-world applications and systems heavily rely on various network protocols for efficient functioning. Each example reveals the versatility and necessity of these protocols in everyday tech environments.
+=== The Internet ===
+The Internet's vast network of interconnected devices hinged on protocols such as TCP/IP, HTTP, and DNS. Each layer of the TCP/IP model plays a significant role in facilitating communication across diverse networks globally. The sheer scale of the Internet necessitates robust and adaptive protocols to handle complex routing, data integrity, and security.
+=== Corporate Networks ===
+In corporate settings, organizations utilize various network protocols to maintain internal communications and secure transactions. A combination of Ethernet (for local area connections), IP (for data routing), and VPN protocols (for secure remote access) forms the backbone of corporate networking infrastructures.
+Moreover, specific industries may employ specialized protocols tailored to their operational requirements. For example, healthcare organizations may utilize HL7 (Health Level Seven) standards for exchanging medical information while ensuring compliance with privacy regulations.
+=== Internet of Things (IoT) ===
+The emergence of the Internet of Things (IoT) has introduced unique challenges and opportunities for network protocols. With billions of devices connected, protocols designed for low-power, low-bandwidth communication, such as MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport) and CoAP (Constrained Application Protocol), are becoming increasingly prominent. These protocols cater to the specific communication needs of IoT devices, which often operate in constrained environments and demand efficient data transmission.
 == See also ==
-* [[Internet protocol suite]]
+* [[Internet Protocol]]
-* [[Transport Layer Security]]
+* [[Transmission Control Protocol]]
-* [[List of network protocols]]
+* [[Open Systems Interconnection]]
-* [[OSI model]]
-* [[IPv6]]
 * [[File Transfer Protocol]]
 * [[Hypertext Transfer Protocol]]
-* [[Simple Mail Transfer Protocol]]
+* [[Virtual Private Network]]
-* [[Network security]]
+* [[Security Protocols]]
 == References ==
-* [https://www.ietf.org/ IETF Official Website]
+* [https://www.ietf.org IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force)]
-* [https://www.iana.org/ IANA Official Website]
+* [https://www.ietf.org/rfc/rfc791.txt RFC 791: Internet Protocol]
-* [https://www.iso.org/ ISO Official Website]
+* [https://www.w3.org/Protocols/ HTTP Protocols at W3C]
-* [https://www.w3.org/ W3C Official Website]
+* [https://www.ssl.com/what-is-ssl/ What is SSL?]
+* [https://www.cloudflare.com/learning/how-tls-works/ TLS Overview at Cloudflare]
 [[Category:Network protocols]]
 [[Category:Computer networking]]
 [[Category:Internet technologies]]