Skip to main content
In this lesson, we delve into the fascinating world of network programming using Rust. If you’ve ever wondered how computers communicate over networks or how you can create your own server, this guide offers an excellent starting point. Let’s first understand what network programming is all about. Network programming involves writing software that enables computers to exchange data over networks—be it the internet or local area networks. This data exchange can cover tasks such as sending files, retrieving webpages, or streaming videos. In essence, network programming
The image is an introduction to network programming, featuring two arrows and text explaining data exchange tasks and software for network communication.
allows various devices to communicate, share information, and resources seamlessly. Communication can occur between client and server or even among peer devices. Network programming is fundamental for several reasons:
  • It facilitates connectivity, which is the backbone of the internet and other networks.
  • It supports data exchange between disparate systems, enabling applications like web browsers, email clients, and streaming services.
  • It provides remote access to resources such as cloud storage or remote desktop applications.
  • It helps build scalable applications capable of handling many simultaneous connections—a necessity for modern web services.
The image illustrates the importance of network programming, highlighting four key aspects: enabling connectivity, data exchange, remote access and control, and scalability. Each aspect is represented by an icon and a colored background.
From social media platforms to online banking and multiplayer games, the influence of network programming is ubiquitous.

​
Overview of Network Protocols: TCP and UDP

To appreciate network programming, it is essential to grasp the two primary network protocols: TCP and UDP. These protocols establish the rules for data formatting and transmission over a network, ensuring that any information sent is accurately interpreted by the recipient.
The image is an educational slide titled "Understanding Network Protocols," explaining that network protocols are rules for formatting and transmitting data over a network to ensure correct interpretation between devices.
The two key transport layer protocols are:
  • Transmission Control Protocol (TCP)
  • User Datagram Protocol (UDP)

​
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP)

TCP is a connection-oriented protocol, meaning it creates a reliable connection between a client and a server before data is exchanged. Think of it as establishing a two-way tunnel where data flows securely in both directions. TCP ensures data integrity by:
  • Confirming that data reaches its destination accurately and sequentially.
  • Retransmitting lost packets to maintain completeness.
  • Utilizing error checking mechanisms.
  • Implementing flow control and congestion control to adjust the transmission rate based on network conditions.
The image is an infographic about Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), highlighting its features: connection-oriented, reliable data transfer, and flow control and congestion control.
Think of TCP like a phone call where both parties ensure clear communication before proceeding with the conversation.

​
TCP Connection Process

  1. Handshake Process:
    Before any data is sent, a three-way handshake is executed between the client and server. This involves the exchange of synchronization (SYN) and acknowledgment (ACK) packets to ensure both ends are ready to communicate.
  2. Data Transmission:
    Once the connection is established, data is sent in units called segments. Sequence numbers are assigned to each segment for proper ordering at the receiver’s end, which acknowledges each received segment. Lost segments are retransmitted.
  3. Connection Termination:
    After data exchange, the connection is gracefully terminated using a four-way handshake, ensuring that all data has been received before closure.
The image explains the TCP process, detailing the steps of handshake, data transfer, acknowledgment, and connection termination. Each step is briefly described to illustrate how TCP communication works.
TCP is ideal for applications where data accuracy is paramount—such as file transfers, web browsing, and email.

​
User Datagram Protocol (UDP)

UDP is a connectionless protocol that sends packets, known as datagrams, without establishing a prior connection. Its design is centered around speed and efficiency. The key characteristics of UDP include:
  • Connectionless Communication:
    No handshake is performed; data is sent immediately, significantly reducing latency.
  • Unreliable Data Transfer:
    There is no confirmation of data receipt, no guarantee of order, and no built-in error checking or retransmission.
  • Low Overhead:
    The simplified mechanism makes UDP faster, making it ideal for time-sensitive applications.
Imagine UDP as sending a postcard—quick and simple, without assurance that it will be delivered or arrive in order.

​
How UDP Operates

  • No Handshake:
    Data is transmitted without any initial setup, optimizing for speed.
  • Independent Datagrams:
    Each packet is independent, meaning they might arrive out of order or not at all.
  • No Acknowledgment or Retransmission:
    Handling of lost packets is left to the application level.
  • Broadcast and Multicast Support:
    UDP facilitates sending data to multiple recipients simultaneously; ideal for online gaming, live streaming, and VoIP.
The image explains how UDP (User Datagram Protocol) works, highlighting its features: no handshake, independent data transfer, no acknowledgment or retransmission, and support for broadcast and multicast.

​
Comparing TCP and UDP

ProtocolConnection ModeData ReliabilityOverheadUse Cases
TCPConnection-orientedReliable, guarantees orderHigher due to handshakingWeb browsing, email, file transfer
UDPConnectionlessUnreliable, unorderedLower, fasterOnline gaming, live streaming, VoIP
The image compares the key differences between Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and User Datagram Protocol (UDP), highlighting aspects like connection orientation, reliability, error checking, and overhead.
TCP is best suited for scenarios where guaranteed delivery and sequential data integrity are critical. In contrast, UDP is optimal when speed is essential and occasional data loss is tolerable.
The image explains when to use TCP, highlighting the importance of data integrity for applications like web browsers and email clients, and ordered delivery for applications like HTTP.
In summary, choose TCP when data integrity and sequential delivery are crucial, and opt for UDP when low latency and speed are prioritized, even if it means handling occasional data loss.

Watch Video