What is defined as a set of standards that computers must follow to communicate?

The term that refers to a set of standards that computers must follow to communicate is a protocol. In networking, protocols dictate how data is exchanged between devices, specifying formats, timing, sequencing, and error handling to ensure effective communication. Examples of protocols include HTTP for web communication, FTP for file transfer, and TCP/IP for general networking. These protocols are essential for different systems to understand each other and communicate effectively, emphasizing the importance of having a standardized approach in tech interactions.

A gateway, while relevant in networking, primarily functions as a bridge between different networks, enabling communication between disparate systems. An interface generally refers to the point of interaction between two systems or components, and frameworks are more about structures that provide a foundation for building applications and do not specifically deal with the communication standards between computers.