What is TCP in simple words?

TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) is a set of networking protocols that define how data is transmitted over the internet and other networks. It is the foundation of the modern internet and is used by virtually all computers and devices connected to the internet.

TCP and IP are two of the main protocols in the TCP/IP suite. TCP is responsible for establishing and maintaining connections between devices and ensuring that data is transmitted reliably and in the correct order. IP is responsible for routing data packets to their destination by assigning them unique addresses (IP addresses).

The TCP/IP model consists of four layers:

1. The Link Layer: This layer is responsible for transmitting data over a physical link, such as an Ethernet cable or a wireless connection.
2. The Internet Layer: This layer is responsible for routing data packets to their destination using IP addresses.
3. The Transport Layer: This layer is responsible for establishing and maintaining connections between devices, as well as ensuring that data is transmitted reliably and in the correct order.
4. The Application Layer: This layer is responsible for providing services to the user, such as email, web browsing, and file transfer.

TCP/IP is a widely adopted standard and is used by a variety of devices, including computers, smartphones, tablets, and routers. It is an essential component of the modern internet and is responsible for enabling communication between devices and networks around the world.