There can be an assortment of devices on a network depending on its size. These devices need an effective method of communicating with each other in order to relay information to the correct destination. Communication protocols are a set of standards that tell different hardware and software how to transfer pieces of data to each other. When working with the OSI model, protocols will govern communication between entities on the same reference model layer. Network protocols include mechanisms for devices to identify and establish connections between each other, as well as formatting rules that specify how data is packaged in messages sent and received (Mitchell, 2014). If devices use different protocols, they cannot understand each other in order to successfully transmit and receive data. Communication protocols The Kudler Fine Foods network is that of an Ethernet network. The bus topology used in each store supports fast Ethernet speeds of 100 Mbps. Each store also has VOIP phones that use Internet Protocol to communicate with the network. Servers and computer stations will communicate with the Ethernet line using the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP). TCP/IP is a network standard that defines how data is sent across the network. TCP/IP consists of two different layers. The transmission control protocol is the top layer and manages the assembly of a message or file into smaller packets. After forming the packets, the device will transmit them over the Internet and be received by a device that also uses the TCP protocol. The device then reassembles the packets into the original message and presents the data to the user. The bottom layer is the Internet Protocol and handles the middle of paper......ues which are noted. Kudler Fine Foods customers won't want to wait until the systems are back up and running to purchase their products. Customers may leave for another store and this represents a loss of revenue. Using reliable performance metrics should prevent the network from causing events that have a negative impact. Backup plans and up-to-date hardware and software should also be elements that provide maximum network performance. Works Cited Davis, K. (2008). Latency and jitter. Retrieved May 15, 2014 from http://www.serviceassurancedaily.com/2008/06/latency-and-jitter/Mitchell, B. (2014). Protocol (network). Accessed May 15, 2014, from http://compnetworking.about.com/od/networkprotocols/g/protocols.htmRouse, M. (2006). TCP (Transmission Control Protocol). Retrieved May 15, 2014 from http://searchnetworking.techtarget.com/definition/TCP