Describe the operation of several network protocols at a high level.

HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) – an application layer protocol for transferring hypertext. The client (browser) sends a request to the server (web server), which processes it and returns a response. Used for loading web pages, submitting form data, and API interactions.

HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) – a secure version of HTTP that uses encryption (TLS/SSL) to protect data during transmission. Ensures confidentiality and integrity.

TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) – a transport protocol that provides reliable, connection-oriented data transfer. Segments data, numbers them, controls delivery, and retransmits lost or corrupted packets. Used by HTTP/HTTPS.

UDP (User Datagram Protocol) – a transport protocol offering fast but unreliable, connectionless data transfer. Does not guarantee delivery or packet order. Suitable for streaming media or online gaming where speed is more important than reliability.

IP (Internet Protocol) – a network protocol for addressing and routing data packets between devices in a network. Defines how packets should travel from source to destination over the Internet. Operates at the network layer, below TCP/UDP.