TCP vs UDP comparison in Computer Networks - Quick Revision & Key Differences

Recall & Review

beginner

What does TCP stand for and what is its main purpose?

TCP stands for Transmission Control Protocol. It is used to send data reliably between computers by establishing a connection and ensuring all data arrives correctly.

beginner

What does UDP stand for and how is it different from TCP?

UDP stands for User Datagram Protocol. Unlike TCP, it sends data without establishing a connection and does not guarantee delivery, making it faster but less reliable.

intermediate

Which protocol, TCP or UDP, is better for streaming videos and why?

UDP is better for streaming videos because it sends data quickly without waiting for confirmation, which helps avoid delays even if some data is lost.

intermediate

Name two key features of TCP that make it reliable.

TCP uses connection establishment (handshake) and error checking with acknowledgments to ensure data is sent and received correctly.

intermediate

Why might a game developer choose UDP over TCP for online multiplayer games?

Because UDP is faster and has less delay, it is preferred for games where quick updates are more important than perfect accuracy of every message.

Which protocol guarantees that all data packets arrive in order?

A TCP

B UDP

C Both TCP and UDP

D Neither TCP nor UDP

TCP ensures data packets arrive in order by establishing a connection and using sequence numbers.

Which protocol is connectionless?

A UDP

B TCP

C Both TCP and UDP

D None

UDP is connectionless, meaning it sends data without setting up a connection first.

For which of these applications is UDP most suitable?

A File transfer

B Email

C Live video streaming

D Web browsing

Live video streaming benefits from UDP's speed and low delay, even if some data is lost.

Which protocol uses a handshake process to start communication?

A UDP

B TCP

C Both

D Neither

TCP uses a handshake to establish a connection before sending data.

Which protocol is generally faster but less reliable?

A TCP

B Neither

C Both are equally fast

D UDP

UDP is faster because it does not check for errors or confirm delivery, making it less reliable.

Explain the main differences between TCP and UDP in simple terms.

Think about how each protocol handles sending data and reliability.

Describe a real-life situation where you would prefer to use UDP over TCP and why.

Consider activities where quick updates matter more than perfect accuracy.