How does TCP maintain data integrity during transmission?

TCP, or Transmission Control Protocol, is designed to ensure reliable and orderly communication between devices over a network. One of the key aspects of maintaining data integrity during transmission is the use of a 3-way handshake combined with error checking.

The 3-way handshake establishes a connection between the sender and receiver before any data is exchanged. This process involves three steps: the sender sends a request to the receiver to initiate communication, the receiver responds with an acknowledgment, and finally, the sender acknowledges the receiver's response. This ensures that both parties are prepared for the data exchange, reducing the risk of lost packets.

In addition to establishing a connection, TCP employs error-checking mechanisms. Each TCP segment includes a checksum, which is a calculated value derived from the segment's data. Upon receipt, the receiving device calculates its own checksum and compares it to the one included with the segment. If they do not match, it indicates that the segment has been altered or corrupted during transmission, prompting the receiver to discard it. The receiver can then request a retransmission of the affected segment, thus ensuring that the data remains intact and is accurately reconstructed on the receiving end.

Together, the 3-way handshake and error-checking mechanisms work to maintain data integrity, ensuring reliable and