What is the primary function of a network protocol?

The primary function of a network protocol is to govern how information is transferred across a network. This involves establishing rules and conventions for communication between devices, ensuring that data is sent, received, and interpreted correctly. Network protocols define aspects such as the structure of data packets, error handling, flow control, and the order of message delivery, which are all crucial for achieving reliable communication.

While securing data transmissions, moving information securely between applications, and formatting data for end-user applications are important aspects of network communication, they do not encompass the core role of a network protocol itself. Instead, these aspects may rely on specific protocols or layers within the overall networking framework to achieve their objectives. Thus, the essence of a network protocol lies in its ability to provide a standardized methodology for data exchange, which enables different systems and devices to communicate effectively.