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

TCP/IP, HTTP, HTTPS, WebSockets.

TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) — a transport layer protocol that provides reliable, connection-oriented data delivery. It checks the integrity and order of packets, manages data flow.

IP (Internet Protocol) — a network layer protocol responsible for routing data packets between networks. It does not guarantee delivery or packet order but provides addressing. Together, TCP/IP forms the foundation for most network applications.

HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) — an application protocol for transmitting hypertext. It operates on a request-response basis between a client (browser) and a server. Main methods: GET, POST, PUT, DELETE. Initially stateless.

HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) — a secure version of HTTP. Uses encryption (SSL/TLS) to protect data transmitted between client and server. Ensures confidentiality and data integrity.

WebSockets — a full-duplex communication protocol over a single TCP connection. Allows the server to send data to the client without a prior request, unlike HTTP. Used for real-time applications (chats, online games). Starts as an HTTP request, then "upgrades" to WebSocket.