A protocol is a set of rules. A letter sent through the postal system also uses protocols. Part of the protocol specifies where on the envelope the delivery address needs to be written. If the delivery address is written in the wrong place, the letter cannot be delivered. Internet protocol works in a similar way. Internet protocols are sets of rules governing communication within and between computers on a network. Protocol specifications define the format of the messages to be exchanged.

Timing is crucial to network operation. Protocols require messages to arrive within a certain amount of time so that computers do not wait indefinitely for messages that may have been lost. Therefore, systems maintain one or more times during transmission of data. Protocols also initiate alternative actions if the network does not meet the timing rules. Many protocols consist of a suite of other protocols that are stacked in layers. These layers depend on the operation of the other layers in the suite to function properly.

In a home network with several computers and devices, it is ideal to assign each of them a specific address. This is for the purpose of avoiding problems when you do troubleshooting which requires figuring out the IP address of each of them. It is also a means to prevent address conflicts between the devices. You can also manage them with ease if you have assigned their own addresses.

Here are the procedures in assigning an IP Address on a windows base computer system:Open the Control Panel’s Network Connections icon.Open the icon representing your computer’s network connection.Click the Properties button in the Status dialog box.From the list of items, choose Internet Protocol (TCP/IP).

1.Open the Control Panel’s Network Connections icon.

2.Open the icon representing your computer’s network connection.

3.Click the Properties button in the Status dialog box.

From the list of items, choose Internet Protocol (TCP/IP).