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TCP vs UDP
Comparison of the two core transport layer protocols.
| Feature | TCP | UDP |
|---|---|---|
| Reliability | Reliable (Acknowledgments) | Unreliable (Fire and Forget) |
| Ordering | Ordered delivery | Unordered |
| Speed | Slower (Handshake overhead) | Faster |
| Usage | Web (HTTP), Email (SMTP), File Transfer | Gaming, Streaming, VoIP |
Key Takeaway
When choosing between TCP and UDP, consider your specific requirements regarding reliability and ordering.