What are 'network protocols'?

Network protocols are essential frameworks that dictate how data is transmitted and communicated across networks. They establish the rules and conventions for data exchange between devices, ensuring that messages are sent, received, and understood correctly. This involves specifying things like the format of the data packets, error handling procedures, secure transmission methods, and how devices identify and communicate with each other.

By adhering to these standards, devices from different manufacturers can communicate effectively, which is key for the functionality of the internet and intranets alike. Protocols such as TCP/IP, HTTP, and FTP are common examples that guide the transmission of data for various types of internet services.

The other choices do not correctly define network protocols. Guidelines for software development relate more to programming practices rather than data communication. Tools for managing databases are specific to data storage and retrieval rather than network transmission. Systems for tracking computer performance involve performance metrics, which are not directly related to the protocols that define network communication.