Networks follow standards.
Networking technology requires all elements are able to speak a common language. Plugs and connectors on cables need to be compatible with the sockets on equipment. Software has to send messages the receiver can understand. Hardware has to be able to synchronize data rates. These are some of the issues addressed by networking protocols and standards.
Features
International standards bodies control and distribute international open standards for networking. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) are two standards bodies active in the field of networking standards. These organizations ensure everyone has access to protocols by publishing these standards and making them available for free.
Conventions
Each publishing body has its own publishing conventions. The IETF, for example, publish their standards in a "Request for Comments" format. Contributions are encouraged from specialists working in private companies or academic institutions. Each subsection of the technology is overseen by a "Working Group," which is a committee of interested parties and specialists within that field. This body edits and approves the standards.
Creation
Many common standards were originally created as proprietary systems by companies active in computing. Microsoft, Motorola, IBM and Cisco Systems are particularly active in the creation of new protocols.
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