UDP vs. TCP: Which is the Best?
UDP and TCP are two protocols that are responsible for determining how data is exchanged on the internet. Since both are built on the IP protocol, they do share similarities. However, their differences make them suitable for different use cases. Regardless of their similarities and differences, UDP and TCP are among the most widely used protocols. Now, if you are not sure which one to opt for, you are not alone. After all, you want to stick to the best protocol, right?
Without further ado, let’s take a look at UDP vs. TCP so that you can determine which one is best for your needs and requirements.
What is the main difference between TCP and UDP?
To understand UDP vs. TCP, you will have to understand their underlying IP protocol.
Every device that is connected to the internet has a unique address, referred to as an IP address. An IP address consists of numbers and decimals, enabling devices connected to the internet to find other devices to send and receive data. This process is commonly known as routing. Without the IP protocol, there would be no internet.
Now, when it comes to UDP vs. TCP, they have plenty of differences. But if you are looking for a prominent one, then all you need to know is that UDP is a connectionless protocol, while TCP is a connection-oriented protocol.
UDP is better suited for quicker connections without utilizing a ton of resources. Meanwhile, TCP is an all-around protocol that is stable and guarantees zero packet losses.
Which is better, UDP, or TCP?
Of course, you may be wondering which protocol is the best. There is actually no clear answer to this question because either can be the best depending on your needs and requirements. While for one individual, UDP may be great, it may not have the same effect on another.
For instance, if you want to stream content effortlessly, you will find UDP to be the best. But if you need a more stable connection, without packets losses of any kind, then you will find TCP to be your best bet.
Really, there is no simple answer to which protocol is the best. You will need to establish your needs and requirements, after which you can determine which protocol is actually going to be the best for you.
Why would you use UDP instead of TCP?
As mentioned above, you will find UDP to be a much better option if you want to stream content. Whether it is streaming videos, games, live broadcasts, and any other kind of streaming for that matter, you will find UDP to be right up your alley.
Apart from being the perfect candidate for streaming, UDP requires minimum resources and is a lot faster than TCP. Also, you are not restricted to a connection-based communication model, which should explain why latency is incredibly low on the UDP protocol.
Where TCP and UDP are used?
When finding out about UDP vs. TCP, it would be a good idea to learn about both protocols’ applications. Where can UDP and TCP be used? Let’s take a look:
- UDP Use Cases
UDP is used by routing update protocols like Routing Information Protocol. It is typically used for real-time applications that cannot manage delays while receiving messages.
- TCP Use Cases
The TCP protocol is extremely reliable, which is why it can be used to connect to remote computers over a network. It can also be used to deliver webpages, email, and make file transfers.
Now that you know more about UDP vs. TCP, you will not only be able to tell the difference between the two, but you will also be able to choose the correct protocol. Choosing the correct protocol can be of great importance, especially if you are using a VPN`.
If you are using a reliable VPN, like Ivacy VPN, you can not only choose VPN servers, but you can also switch between protocols. This way, you will have complete control over your online experience via a VPN, so much so, you will never have stuttering, lagging, and other similar issues ever again!
