2.4 KiB
2.4 KiB
obj | wiki | rfc |
---|---|---|
concept | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transmission_Control_Protocol | https://datatracker.ietf.org/doc/html/rfc9293 |
TCP
The Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) is one of the core protocols of the Internet Protocol (IP) suite. It operates at the transport layer and provides reliable, connection-oriented communication between devices on a network. TCP ensures the ordered and error-checked delivery of data, making it suitable for applications where accuracy and reliability are paramount.
Key Characteristics
1. Connection-Oriented:
- TCP establishes a connection between two devices before data exchange. This connection is maintained throughout the communication session.
2. Reliability:
- TCP ensures the reliable delivery of data by using acknowledgments and retransmissions. If a segment is not acknowledged, it is retransmitted to ensure data integrity.
3. Ordered Data Delivery:
- Data sent over a TCP connection is delivered in the same order in which it was sent. This is achieved through sequence numbers assigned to each segment.
4. Flow Control:
- TCP incorporates flow control mechanisms to prevent a fast sender from overwhelming a slow receiver. It uses a sliding window mechanism to manage the flow of data.
5. Full-Duplex Communication:
- TCP supports full-duplex communication, allowing data to be sent and received simultaneously by both communicating devices.
TCP Operation
1. Three-Way Handshake:
- TCP begins with a three-way handshake to establish a connection. This involves SYN (synchronize), SYN-ACK (synchronize acknowledgment), and ACK (acknowledge) segments.
2. Data Transfer:
- Once the connection is established, data can be transferred between the devices. Each segment is acknowledged, and retransmissions occur in case of lost or corrupted data.
3. Connection Termination:
- TCP ensures a reliable connection termination through a four-way handshake involving FIN (finish) and ACK segments.
TCP Header
The TCP header includes various fields, including:
- Source and Destination Port Numbers: Identify the source and destination applications on the devices.
- Sequence Number and Acknowledgment Number: Manage the ordering and acknowledgment of data segments.
- Window Size: Specifies the size of the sender's receive window for flow control.
- Checksum: Ensures the integrity of the TCP header and data.