Home › Devices & Everyday Tech › Smart Home & IoT Devices › protocol

protocol

PROH-tuh-kol /ˈproʊtəkɒl/

nounC1GRETOEFLIELTS

technicalprofessionalformal

A standardized set of rules governing the exchange, transmission, and formatting of data between devices in a network.

A protocol is the 'language' that devices speak. For two devices to communicate, they must use the exact same protocol (such as Zigbee, Z-Wave, or Wi-Fi).

The story behind the word. The word 'protocol' has a fascinating history. It comes from the Greek 'protokollon', combining 'protos' (first) and 'kolla' (glue). It originally referred to the first sheet of paper glued to a papyrus roll, which contained an official summary, table of contents, or stamp of authenticity. It evolved to mean diplomatic rules, and eventually, computer communication rules.

Word relationships

standard: A standard is an agreed-upon specification or technology, while a protocol is the active, step-by-step set of rules used to implement that standard during communication.
procedure: Procedure refers to a general sequence of actions to be followed, while protocol is a highly rigid, automated set of rules for digital data exchange.

Commonly confused with

interface: An interface is the boundary or point of connection where two systems meet (physical or visual), whereas a protocol is the set of rules they use to talk across that boundary.

Word family

protocols (noun): Plural form of protocol.

Collocations

communication protocol
network protocol
security protocol
standard protocol

Example sentences

"Zigbee is a low-power wireless protocol that allows smart lightbulbs to pass messages along to one another." Smart home wireless standards
"The visiting prime minister was welcomed according to strict diplomatic protocol." Diplomatic rules

Memory hook

Think of 'proto' (first) and 'col' (glue). A protocol is the 'first glue' that holds a digital conversation together. Protocols are the rules that glue devices together.

When not to use

Do not use 'protocol' when you simply mean a physical connection (like a USB cable). A protocol is the digital set of rules, not the physical wire.

Fun facts

The internet runs on a suite of protocols known as TCP/IP, which was designed in the 1970s and still manages almost all global web traffic today.