The 3 Types of Network Protocols

Network protocols are guidelines for devices on how to interact and communicate with one another effectively. Network protocols form the foundation of communication between computers on a network. At its core, a network protocol is a set of guidelines that dictate how data is transmitted and received across network devices. Network administrators manage an organization’s network protocols to ensure authenticated user access and security for the entire network. 

Explore what protocols are, how different protocols function, and how you can expand your skills in this area.

3 types of network protocols

While many different network protocols exist, they each have one of three primary purposes: communication, management, or security. By understanding these varying functions, you can ensure you choose the right network protocol type for your professional or personal needs.

Protocols for network communication

Communication network protocols serve as the backbone of device communication. These protocols enable different devices and systems to interact seamlessly by establishing pre-defined rules to govern everything from instant messaging on your smartphone to complex tasks like automating smart buildings. Some common types of network communication protocols include:

• Automation protocols

• Instant messaging protocols

• File transfer protocols

• Simple mail transfer protocols

• Bluetooth protocols

Key network communication protocols

Key network and communication protocols include TCP/IP and HTTP. TCP/IP, or transmission control protocol/internet protocol, represents a group of communication protocols used to connect networked computers. HTTP, the hypertext transfer protocol, is part of this group and is used for web-based communication.

Servers and clients in a TCP/IP network use numeric IP addresses. These can be either IPv4 or IPv6 types, depending on the version. Websites, also known as hosts, have specific hostnames that map to these IP addresses. Unlike a one-to-one correspondence between IP addresses and host names, virtual hosting allows one HTTP server to represent multiple hosts sharing the same IP address.

Protocols for network management

Network management protocols act as the control center of a network, ensuring various devices work together effectively. These protocols communicate with and monitor each device across the network, ensuring stable connections between devices and reporting network issues. Some common types of network management protocols include:

• Connection protocols

• Link aggregation protocols

• Troubleshooting protocols

Key network management protocols

Network management protocols like simple network management protocol (SNMP) and internet control message protocol (ICMP) help to maintain and govern network operations. SNMP is the most widely used network management protocol and assists with monitoring and maintenance, providing information about the network to the management system. ICMP, on the other hand, reports errors and diagnostics within the network.

Much like TCP/IP provides a framework for identifying servers and clients using numeric IP addresses, SNMP and ICMP enable efficient network maintenance and troubleshooting. They assist administrators in identifying network components and helping diagnose potential issues. 

Protocols for network security

Network security protocols are the safeguards of the network, shielding data and devices from unauthorized access. These protocols establish rules for encrypting data, authenticating users, and securing data during transit. Common types of network security protocols include:

• Encryption protocols

• Entity authentication protocols

• Access control protocols

• Transportation layer security protocols

Key network security protocols

Network security protocols like HTTPS, SSL, and SFTP provide secure data exchange and communication within networks. HTTPS, or secure hypertext transfer protocol, is an enhanced version of HTTP designed to encrypt web traffic between a client and a server. SSL, or secure socket layer, provides a secure channel for internet connections, offering encryption for both client-to-server and server-to-server communications. SFTP, or secure file transfer protocol, implements secure transmission of files across a network, employing both encryption and authentication mechanisms.

These protocols serve a role akin to SNMP and ICMP in network management. Where SNMP and ICMP form the framework for network maintenance and diagnostics, HTTPS, SSL, and SFTP establish secure data transmission and storage standards. They offer a level of security that parallels the operational efficiency rendered by SNMP and ICMP in network management.

Benefits of network protocols

Network management brings several advantages to an organization’s IT infrastructure, providing both tangible and intangible returns on investment. Some key benefits include:

Centralized control

One advantage of a well-implemented network management system is central control. This allows for increased team sharing, faster error reporting, and enhanced productivity.

Security enhancements

You can centrally manage and deploy enhanced security measures to protect your data and ensure you have the tools to prevent present and future attacks. 

Performance optimization

Through data analytics and performance monitoring, network management helps make informed decisions to improve network efficiency and user experience.

Unplanned downtime prevention

With features like failover policies, network management systems can prevent or mitigate the effects of unplanned outages, reducing interruptions to business operations.

Cost-effectiveness

While setting up a network management system might require an initial investment, the operational efficiencies gained lead to long-term cost savings. This is due to reduced downtime, efficient resource utilization, and improved security measures that mitigate the risks of costly data breaches.

Who uses network protocols?

Network protocols are common in our daily digital interactions and are not just the domain of network engineers and IT aficionados. In fact, if you ever use a smartphone to browse the web or participate in a secure video conference, you are using network protocols.

While you likely benefit from network protocols on a day-to-day basis, the responsibility for their management lies primarily with network administrators and IT specialists. These professionals ensure the optimal performance, security, and availability of network resources, often in compliance with organizational policies such as an acceptable use policy. If you want to work with network protocols professionally, start a career in network administration, network engineering, or a similar field.

Read more: How to Get a Job as a Network Engineer: 6 Tips

Learn more about network protocols.

Whether starting a networking career or simply looking for hands-on experience, you can take several steps to boost your outlook regarding a network-related career. Some steps you can take include:

• Earning a degree: Consider obtaining a degree in computer science, information systems, or a related field. Many institutions also offer specialized courses in networking.

• Obtaining certifications: Acquiring certifications like Cisco’s CCNA or CompTIA’s Network+ can provide a practical foundation and make you more attractive to employers.

• Seeking hands-on experience: Set up your own home network for practice. Work with routers, switches, and various configurations to understand architecture.

• Learning protocols: Familiarize yourself with essential network protocols like TCP/IP, HTTP, HTTPS, and SNMP. Understanding how these protocols work will be fundamental in your networking journey.

• Completing internships and entry-level positions: Seek internships or entry-level positions, such as a help desk technician, that allow you to work closely with network systems. This will give you practical experience and could lead to career opportunities.

Getting started with Coursera

Network protocols like TCP/IP, HTTPS, and SSL, along with others, work to secure, automate, and centralize networks through network administrators. You can continue expanding your network administration and configuration knowledge with exciting online courses on the Coursera learning platform. The Google IT Support Professional Certificate is a great way to gain a comprehensive foundation of network models, network systems, information technology, and more.