What protocols govern communication in distributed systems?

Protocols that govern communication in distributed systems include HTTP, FTP, SMTP, SNMP, and DNS.

HTTP, or Hypertext Transfer Protocol, is a protocol used for transmitting hypertext over the internet. It forms the foundation of any data exchange on the web and is a protocol used for distributed, collaborative, and hypermedia information systems. HTTP is a request-response protocol in the client-server computing model. A web browser, for example, may be the client, and an application running on a computer hosting a website may be the server.

FTP, or File Transfer Protocol, is a standard network protocol used for the transfer of computer files between a client and server on a computer network. FTP is built on a client-server model architecture using separate control and data connections between the client and the server. It is often used in corporate settings for uploading and downloading files to a server.

SMTP, or Simple Mail Transfer Protocol, is an internet standard for email transmission. It is a protocol for sending e-mail messages between servers. Most e-mail systems that send mail over the Internet use SMTP to send messages from one server to another; the messages can then be retrieved with an e-mail client using either POP or IMAP.

SNMP, or Simple Network Management Protocol, is an internet standard protocol for managing devices on IP networks. Devices that typically support SNMP include routers, switches, servers, workstations, printers, modem racks, and more. It is used mostly in network management systems to monitor network-attached devices for conditions that warrant administrative attention.

DNS, or Domain Name System, is a hierarchical and decentralised naming system for computers, services, or other resources connected to the Internet or a private network. It associates various information with domain names assigned to each of the participating entities. It translates more readily memorised domain names to the numerical IP addresses needed for locating and identifying computer services and devices with the underlying network protocols.

These protocols are essential for ensuring smooth and efficient communication in distributed systems. They each serve different purposes and are used in different contexts, but all contribute to the functioning of distributed systems.