protocol

1 (computer science) rules determining the format and transmission of data [syn: communications protocol]

2 forms of ceremony and etiquette observed by diplomats and heads of state

3 code of correct conduct; "safety protocols"; "academic protocol"

English

Pronunciation

\Pro"to*col\

Etymology

protocole, protocollum, from [Πρωτόκολλο (Πρώτο+κολλάω)] the first leaf glued to the rolls of papyrus and the notarial documents, on which the date was written; prw^tos the first (see Proto- + glue.)

Noun

1. A rule, guideline, or document which guides how an activity should be performed.
2. The original copy of any writing, as of a deed, treaty, dispatch, or other instrument.
3. The minutes, or rough draft, of an instrument or transaction.
4. In the context of "diplomacy": A preliminary document upon the basis of which negotiations are carried on.
5. In the context of "diplomacy": A convention not formally ratified.
6. In the context of "diplomacy": An agreement of diplomatists indicating the results reached by them at a particular stage of a negotiation.
7. A set of formal rules describing how to transmit data, especially across a network. A message syntax or electrical specification and a description 2 or more communication nodes: finite state machines, the transition functions of which take messages or times as input and, when then so triggered, may themselves send messages.

Verb

1. , : To make a protocol of.
2. , : To make or write protocols, or first drafts; to issue protocols.

A Protocol is a set of guidelines or rules.

Protocol may also refer to:

In computing and internet

• Communications protocol, a set of rules governing communication between electronic devices
• Protocol (computing), a set of rules governing communication within and between computing endpoints
• File Transfer Protocol or FTP
• Hypertext Transfer Protocol or HTTP
• Internet protocol suite or TCP/IP
• Protocol (object-oriented programming)
• Cryptographic protocol

In scientific method

• Protocol (natural sciences)
• Clinical trial protocol
• Clinical protocol, a Guideline (medical)

In Russian texts

• Protocols of the wise men of Zion, Library of Congress uniform title
  • The Protocols
  • Protocols of the Elders of Zion

In other uses

• Protocol (diplomacy), the etiquette of diplomacy and affairs of state
• Etiquette in general
• Protocol (film), a 1984 Hollywood movie starring Goldie Hawn
• Protocol (band), a British electropop band

See also

• Police protocol unit

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