Chapter 1
Understanding TCP/IP Basics
In This Chapter
Protocols in this chapter: IP, TCP, IPSec, PPTP, L2TP
Introducing TCP/IP
Defining a protocol
Understanding RFCs — the protocol documentation
Differentiating between intranets, extranets, and Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
Figuring out who’s in charge of TCP/IP and the Internet
Investigating different types of networks that rely on TCP/IP software
You bought or borrowed this book, or maybe you’re just flipping through it to pick up some information and tips about TCP/IP and its pieces and parts. Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol, or TCP/IP, is the internationally accepted software for networking in general and, specifically, for making the Internet’s services possible.
As you read this book, you get a behind-the-scenes look at how TCP/IP makes the Internet work. You also see how to use TCP/IP to set up your own home, office, or even international network. This chapter gets started by defining a protocol in general and TCP/IP protocols specifically. Proposals known as Requests for Comment, or RFCs, document how TCP/IP should function. You may wonder who’s in charge of defining these protocols that rule the Internet. The answer is: lots of people who join international committees. This chapter describes the main Internet governing committees and what they do.
The Internet is one giant worldwide network that consists of tens of thousands of other networks. We give you an idea in this chapter of the different kinds ...
