NETWORK
A network refers to the interconnection of two or more devices—either directly or indirectly—to enable reliable communication using one or more communication protocols.
Protocol
A protocol is a set of rules, regulations, checkpoints, and sometimes standards that must be followed to ensure reliable communication between devices.
Embedded Devices
1. Stand-Alone Devices
Stand-alone embedded systems are generally simpler and less complex. They are self-contained and function independently without the need for a network. These systems accept user input and respond accordingly. The input/output pins receive the desired input, which may be either analog or digital.
Examples:
Microwave oven, digital wristwatch, MP3 player, doorbell, calculator.
2. Network-Enabled Devices
These embedded devices are interconnected via a network. They can communicate with a server or with each other through network protocols. Such systems are commonly found in everyday life.
Examples:
ATM machines, card swipe machines, IoT devices, air conditioners, projectors, IP cameras, etc.
Internet
Requirements to Establish a Network
To set up a network, the following are required:
A minimum of two devices
A communication channel
Communication protocols
Design of Network-Enabled Embedded Devices
Network-enabled embedded devices can be designed in two ways:
1. Continuous Devices
Devices maintain a continuous connection to exchange data.
Examples:
Mobile antenna and base station, ATM and main server.
2. Discrete Devices
Devices do not require a continuous connection to exchange data.
Examples:
TV remote, AC remote.
Types of Network Protocols
SMTP – Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (Used for sending emails)
POP3 – Post Office Protocol (Used for receiving emails)
IMAP – Internet Message Access Protocol (Used for receiving emails)
SSH – Secure Shell (Used for remote login)
TELNET – (Also used for remote login)
DHCP – Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (Assigns IP addresses dynamically)
DNS – Domain Name System (Converts domain names to IP addresses)
NTP – Network Time Protocol (Synchronizes time over the network)
TCP – Transmission Control Protocol
UDP – User Datagram Protocol
SCTP – Stream Control Transmission Protocol
IP – Internet Protocol
ARP – Address Resolution Protocol (Converts IP address to physical/MAC address)
RARP – Reverse Address Resolution Protocol (Converts physical/MAC address to IP address)
ICMP – Internet Control Message Protocol (Sends error or status messages in the network)
IGMP – Internet Group Management Protocol
RIP – Routing Information Protocol (Used for finding the shortest path to a destination)
OSPF – Open Shortest Path First (Another routing protocol for shortest path discovery)
HTTP – Hypertext Transfer Protocol (Used for data transfer over the web)
FTP – File Transfer Protocol (Used to upload or download files between computers)
TFTP – Trivial File Transfer Protocol
PPTP – Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol
RTP – Real-Time Transport Protocol
SIP – Session Initiation Protocol
TLS – Transport Layer Security (Provides encryption and security for data transmission)
Conclusion
As embedded systems and IoT networks continue to transform industries, a deep understanding of how devices communicate has become a critical skill. Reliable, real-time communication across embedded and network-enabled systems is powered by robust network protocols such as TCP/IP, HTTP, DHCP, and more. These protocols form the backbone of modern technologies—from simple home automation tools to large-scale industrial IoT infrastructures.
At the Indian Institute of Embedded Systems (IIES), students gain hands-on experience in building and deploying smart, connected solutions. By learning how to design network-enabled embedded devices, configure communication channels, and implement essential protocols, learners are empowered to contribute meaningfully to domains like smart manufacturing, predictive maintenance, and cyber-physical systems.
With innovations like 5G, edge networking, and intelligent protocol stacks shaping the future, IIES continues to lead in nurturing professionals ready to take on the challenges of real-time communication, secure device integration, and the next generation of embedded and IoT technologies.
