MSDN Documentation

Microsoft Developer Network

Windows Networking Protocols

This section provides comprehensive documentation on the networking protocols supported and implemented by Microsoft Windows operating systems. Understanding these protocols is crucial for network administrators, developers, and anyone involved in network configuration and troubleshooting.

Core Networking Protocols

Explore the fundamental protocols that enable communication across networks.

Transmission Control Protocol (TCP)

A connection-oriented, reliable protocol that ensures data integrity and ordered delivery.

Overview | Usage

User Datagram Protocol (UDP)

A connectionless, unreliable protocol offering faster data transfer, suitable for applications where speed is critical.

Overview | Considerations

Internet Protocol (IP)

The primary protocol for addressing and routing packets of data across networks, supporting both IPv4 and IPv6.

IPv4 | IPv6 | Routing

Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP/S)

The foundation of data communication for the World Wide Web, used for transferring web pages and other resources.

Versions | HTTPS Security

Commonly Used Protocols

Protocols frequently employed for various network services and applications.

Domain Name System (DNS)

Translates human-readable domain names into machine-readable IP addresses.

Client Configuration | Server Operations

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)

Assigns IP addresses and other network configuration parameters to devices automatically.

Client Setup | Server Administration

Server Message Block (SMB)

A network file sharing protocol used for accessing files, printers, and other resources across a network.

Versions (SMB1, SMB2, SMB3) | Security Aspects

File Transfer Protocol (FTP)

A standard network protocol used for transferring computer files between a client and server on a computer network.

Client Usage | Server Configuration

Secure Shell (SSH)

A cryptographic network protocol for operating network services securely over an unsecured network.

Client Software | Server Configuration

Advanced Networking Protocols

Explore protocols used for more specialized network functions and management.

Border Gateway Protocol (BGP)

The routing protocol of the Internet. It exchanges routing and reachability information among autonomous systems.

Key Concepts | Configuration Examples

Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN) Tagging

IEEE 802.1Q standard for creating virtual LANs on Ethernet networks.

Implementation in Windows | Best Practices

Transport Layer Security (TLS)

A cryptographic protocol designed to provide communications security over a computer network.

Versions (TLS 1.2, TLS 1.3) | Certificate Management