In which scenario would you prefer using TCP over UDP?

When transferring a file, using TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) is preferred due to its reliability and error-checking features. TCP ensures that all packets of data sent from the source to the destination are delivered accurately and in the correct order. It establishes a connection before transmission begins and uses acknowledgments to confirm receipt of packets, allowing it to resend any lost packets during the transfer process. This reliability is especially crucial for file transfers, where complete and accurate data is necessary for the integrity of the file being sent.

In contrast, protocols like UDP (User Datagram Protocol) do not provide these guarantees. They send packets without first establishing a connection and do not offer retransmissions or acknowledgments, making UDP more suitable for scenarios where speed is critical, and some data loss is acceptable—for example, in live video streaming or online gaming. In these cases, the need for real-time data delivery can outweigh the need for reliability, which is why TCP is not favorable in those situations. Sending a simple ping request employs ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol), which is neither TCP nor UDP, focusing on diagnostic and control communication rather than file transfer. Therefore, for file transfers, TCP’s features make it the optimal choice.