User Datagram Protocol facts for kids
The User Datagram Protocol (UDP) is a key part of the Internet's rules. It lets computer programs send small messages, called datagrams, to other computers on the internet. It's fast because it doesn't need to set up a special connection first. Think of it as a quick way to send data without a lot of fuss. UDP was created by David P. Reed in 1980.
What Are UDP Ports?
When computers talk to each other using UDP, they use special numbers called ports. Imagine a big apartment building (your computer) with many apartments (different programs). Each apartment has a number. When a message arrives, the port number tells the computer which program the message is for.
How Port Numbers Work
Ports are identified by a number from 0 to 65,535. These numbers help direct the data to the correct application on your computer.
- Well-Known Ports (0 to 1023): These are like the main doors to important services. For example, port 53 is often used for the DNS, which helps your computer find websites.
- Registered Ports (1024 to 49,151): These ports are used by many different applications. When you install a new game or program, it might use one of these ports to send and receive data.
- Dynamic or Private Ports (49,152 to 65,535): These are like temporary doors. Your computer often uses these ports when it's connecting to a server, like when you visit a website.
How UDP Is Used
UDP is often used when speed is more important than making sure every single piece of data arrives perfectly.
- Online Gaming: In fast-paced online games, a tiny delay can ruin the experience. UDP is used to send game updates quickly, even if a few updates get lost. It's better to get slightly old information fast than perfect information too late.
- Streaming Video and Audio: When you watch a live stream, UDP helps deliver the video and audio quickly. If a small part of the stream is missed, it's usually not a big deal because the next part arrives right away.
- DNS Lookups: When your computer needs to find the address of a website (like "example.com"), it uses UDP to quickly ask a DNS server for the information.
See also
In Spanish: Protocolo de datagramas de usuario para niños
