Protocols Revision
This revision lesson covers network protocols — the rules that govern communication between devices. You'll also review IP addresses (format, public vs private) and their role in network communication.
Learning Objectives
- 11.6.3.1 Explain the role of protocols (HTTP, FTP, POP3, SMTP, HTTPS, FTPS)
- 11.6.3.2 Explain the format of an IP address and how it is associated with a device
- 11.6.3.3 Explain the difference between public and private IP addresses
Key Concepts Review
Network Protocols
| Protocol | Full Name | Purpose | Port |
|---|---|---|---|
| HTTP | HyperText Transfer Protocol | Transfer web pages (unsecured) | 80 |
| HTTPS | HTTP Secure | Encrypted web page transfer (SSL/TLS) | 443 |
| FTP | File Transfer Protocol | Upload/download files | 21 |
| FTPS | FTP Secure | Encrypted file transfer | 990 |
| SMTP | Simple Mail Transfer Protocol | Sending emails | 25/587 |
| POP3 | Post Office Protocol v3 | Receiving emails (downloads to device) | 110 |
| IMAP | Internet Message Access Protocol | Receiving emails (stays on server) | 143 |
IP Address Format
1 IPv4 Address
Format: xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx (4 octets, dotted decimal)
Example: 192.168.1.100
Each octet = 8 bits → range 0–255
Total address space = 32 bits → ~4.3 billion addresses
IPv6: 128-bit addresses written in hexadecimal
Example: 2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334Public vs Private IP
| Feature | Public IP | Private IP |
|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Visible on the Internet | Only within local network (LAN) |
| Assigned by | ISP (Internet Service Provider) | Router / DHCP server |
| Uniqueness | Globally unique | Unique only within LAN (can repeat across networks) |
| Ranges | Any address not in private ranges | 10.x.x.x / 172.16–31.x.x / 192.168.x.x |
| NAT | Not needed | Requires NAT to access the Internet |
Revision Tasks
List 6 network protocols and explain the purpose of each.
Explain the difference between HTTP and HTTPS. Why is HTTPS important?
Given the IP address 192.168.0.5, determine if it is public or private and explain how you know.
Compare POP3 and IMAP. When would you use each? Which is better for accessing email from multiple devices?
Self-Check Quiz
Q1: What protocol is used to send emails?
Q2: Is 10.0.0.1 a public or private IP address?
Q3: How many bits are in an IPv4 address?