1. Network protocol
A network protocol is an agreed way of how to communicate over a network. A protocol is often made formal by setting up a world standard.
In general, the word 'protocol' means an agreed set of rules of how to do something.
In terms of network communications having a protocol standard allows devices to exchange data with one another as long as they are all following the same rules.
There are many standard network protocols, some of which will be discussed over the next few pages.