What does TCP stand for?

TCP stands for Transmission Control Protocol. This protocol is a core component of the Internet Protocol Suite and is crucial for managing how data packets are transmitted across networks. It establishes a connection between sender and receiver before data transmission begins, ensuring that data is sent reliably and in order.

TCP is responsible for error-checking and ensures that no data is lost during transmission. If packets of data arrive out of order, TCP reorders them, and if packets are missing, TCP will request that they be resent. This reliability feature is what differentiates TCP from other protocols like UDP (User Datagram Protocol), which does not guarantee delivery or order.

The term “Transmission” accurately reflects the role of TCP in sending data from one point to another, and “Control” highlights its function in managing how data is sent and ensuring that it is delivered correctly. This understanding of how TCP operates is fundamental to grasping the broader concepts of networking and data communication.