Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol is the set of communication protocols. This protocol handles data transmission over the Internet and plays an important role in effective communication. In addition, it serves as the foundation of global data transfer.
Here, we will discuss TCP/IP in detail, including their working. Let’s get in!
How Are TCP and IP Different?
Although TCP/IP are often used together they are two different protocols. Both TCP and IP work together to send and receive data. The difference between these protocols is the following:
Transmission Control Protocol
Transmission Control Protocol is responsible for separating the data into separate packets. It also makes sure that data is transmitted in the proper sequence. Moreover, it also handles any errors in the data transmission.
Internet Protocol
The Internet Protocol (IP) is referred to as a low-level communication protocol. This protocol handles routing the data packets across the internet. It determines the destination IP addresses where your data needs to go.
How Does TCP/IP Work?
Communication networks rely on TCP/IP to function effectively. At the sender’s end, TCP/IP breaks your data into packets. You can think of these packets as small envelopes containing your personal information. Each packet is then assigned an IP address. This address tells where the packet needs to go. These packets then travel across different routes, switches, and cables. This process is known as routing. To know your IP address, go to a website called What is My IP?.
Finally, the TCP gathers all data packets. It ensures that all data packets arrive at the right destinations. It builds the packets back in the correct order so you can receive the right message. Moreover, TCP also looks for any lost or damaged data packets and asks to resend those packets. This ensures data arrives intact without any errors.
Layers of TCP/IP Model
The TCP/IP communication model has the following four layers:
- Datalink Layer: It is the first layer which is responsible for creating and transmitting data frames. It also handles the physical connection between devices.
- Internet Layer: The internet layer is also known as the IP layer. This layer is responsible for assigning unique IP addresses and routing packets across networks. It determines the best path and destination of the data packets.
- Transport Layer: The transport layer ensures reliable, ordered delivery of packets. It also handles flow control and error correction.
- Application Layer : The application layer is the last layer, which deals with applications requiring network communication.