NetworksKey Facts

Quick Reference - Protocols Summary

Part of ProtocolsGCSE Computer Science

This key facts covers Quick Reference - Protocols Summary within Protocols for GCSE Computer Science. Revise Protocols in Networks for GCSE Computer Science with 15 exam-style questions and 18 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 10 of 10 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.

Topic position

Section 10 of 10

Practice

15 questions

Recall

18 flashcards

Quick Reference - Protocols Summary

HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol):

  • Purpose: Transfer web pages
  • Port: 80
  • Security: NOT secure (plain text)
  • Use: Public information only (being replaced by HTTPS)

HTTPS (HTTP Secure):

  • Purpose: Transfer web pages securely
  • Port: 443
  • Security: Encrypted with SSL/TLS
  • Use: Banking, shopping, logins, any sensitive data

FTP (File Transfer Protocol):

  • Purpose: Transfer files between computers
  • Port: 21 (command), 20 (data)
  • Security: NOT secure (being replaced by SFTP)
  • Use: Upload website files, file sharing

SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol):

  • Purpose: SEND emails (not receive)
  • Port: 25, 587
  • Security: Can be encrypted with TLS
  • Receiving: Use POP3 (download) or IMAP (sync)

The Golden Rule:

Different protocols for different purposes! HTTP/HTTPS for web, SMTP for sending email, FTP for files. ALWAYS use secure versions (HTTPS, SFTP, IMAPS) when handling sensitive data!

Keep building this topic

Read this section alongside the surrounding pages in Protocols. That gives you the full topic sequence instead of a single isolated revision point.

Practice Questions for Protocols

What is a protocol in networking?

  • A. A programming language used to build websites
  • B. A set of rules that governs how devices communicate
  • C. A type of network cable used to connect devices
  • D. A program that manages files on a server
1 markfoundation

Explain the role of TCP/IP in network communication.

3 marksstandard

Quick Recall Flashcards

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