TCP Header Options
What are TCP Header Options?
TCP header options are optional fields that extend the capabilities of the standard TCP header. They allow for features like performance tuning, enhanced security, and better congestion control.
Why are TCP Header Options useful?
They enable advanced functionality beyond the basic header fields, such as window scaling, selective acknowledgments (SACK), and timestamping — improving efficiency and reliability of TCP communication.
How do TCP Header Options work?
TCP options are included after the standard 20-byte TCP header. Each option has a kind field, length, and value. These options are negotiated during the TCP handshake or included in data segments.
Where are TCP Header Options used?
They are used in networks requiring advanced features like high throughput, long-distance communication, or improved error handling — such as data centers, cloud environments, and WANs.
Which OSI layer do TCP Header Options belong to?
TCP header options operate at the Transport Layer (Layer 4) of the OSI model, as part of the TCP segment structure.
Are TCP Header Options Windows specific?
No, TCP options are part of the TCP/IP standard and are supported on all major platforms including Windows, Linux, and macOS.
Are TCP Header Options Linux specific?
No, Linux supports TCP options just like other platforms. Tools like sysctl and iptables allow configuration of some TCP options.
Which transport protocol uses TCP Header Options?
Only TCP uses TCP header options. Other protocols like UDP do not have optional header fields.
Are TCP Header Options used in the client-server model?
Yes, during the client-server connection establishment phase (3-way handshake), TCP options can be negotiated to enhance performance and reliability.
In this section, you are going to learn
Terminology
Version Info
setup
Reference links