Communication protocol is a set of rules that devices follow to send and receive data over a network. It defines how to start a connection, how messages look, how to acknowledge them, and how to handle errors.
When your phone joins Wi-Fi, it uses DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) to get an IP address, then uses HTTP/HTTPS to load websites. TCP ensures reliable delivery (retransmits lost packets), while UDP sends faster, best-effort data like live streams.
In Kenya, home routers often use PPPoE (Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet) to authenticate with ISPs like Safaricom and Zuku. Mobile money and e-commerce APIs use HTTPS with JSON or XML to keep transactions secure.
See also: TCP/IP, HTTP/HTTPS, DHCP, PPPoE, Wi-Fi (802.11), Encryption.
