What does the acronym TCP stand for?

The acronym TCP stands for Transmission Control Protocol. This is a core protocol of the Internet Protocol Suite, which is responsible for establishing a reliable connection between devices over a network. TCP ensures that data packets are sent and received in the correct order and without errors, making it essential for applications that require reliable communication, such as web browsing, email, and file transfers.

TCP achieves this reliability through a series of mechanisms including error detection, acknowledgment of received packets, and retransmission of lost packets. By establishing a connection between the sender and receiver, TCP allows for full-duplex communication, meaning that data can flow in both directions simultaneously. Understanding TCP's role is crucial for anyone involved in networking or technical support, as it lays the foundation for modern communication over the Internet.