How many major functions do protocols have?

Protocols are essential in networking as they define a set of rules and conventions for communication between network devices. The two major functions of protocols are ensuring data integrity and providing reliable communication channels.

The first function revolves around the orderly transmission and reception of messages, where protocols establish standards for how data is formatted, transmitted, and checked for errors. The second function involves defining how devices negotiate and maintain communication sessions, which includes error handling and retransmission of lost packets.

These two functions are crucial for enabling different devices and systems, often from varied manufacturers, to communicate effectively and understand each other's messages, which is foundational for network interoperability and performance.