What does the abbreviation TCP-IP stand for?

The abbreviation TCP-IP stands for Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol. This term describes a set of communication protocols used for the Internet and similar networks.

Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) is responsible for ensuring reliable and ordered communication between devices, breaking down data into packets, sending them over the network, and reassembling them at the destination. Meanwhile, Internet Protocol (IP) is responsible for addressing and routing those packets to ensure they reach the correct destination. Together, TCP and IP form the foundational protocols for data transmission on the Internet, enabling a variety of services such as web browsing, email, and file transfers.

Understanding this acronym is essential for anyone studying cybersecurity, as it is a fundamental concept in networking that impacts how data is transmitted and secured across the internet.