UDP

UDP is a network protocol for transmitting so-called “datagrams” without first installing a confirmation connection.

Principle of operation

The protocol uses a simple algorithm that does not guarantee reliability, integrity, or hierarchy when transmitting information. The data may come in jumbled, some of the information may be lost in the process or not delivered.

The use of UDP implies that data integrity checking must take place on the side of the software that receives the datagrams.

This protocol is used when it is necessary to respond to small requests from a large number of hosts, or for delay-sensitive applications.

Reliability and congestion

Most applications that use the UDP protocol do not use a data integrity checking mechanism. This is because these checks only interfere with the protocol and delay the transmission of data.

For example video and audio traffic is transmitted over UDP, since they are not sensitive to packet loss. If, however, it is necessary to ensure the stability of the transmission, then other protocols are used.