Final Answer:
The client socket is using TCP. This can be inferred from the mention of a "three-way handshake" in establishing the connection, which is a characteristic of TCP (Transmission Control Protocol).
A socket supports bidirectional communication. Bidirectional communication means that data can be transmitted in both directions, allowing for a two-way exchange of information between the communicating parties. Sockets provide a versatile mechanism for bidirectional communication, enabling data to flow in both the send and receive directions.
One IP address can support more than one socket simultaneously through the use of port numbers. Ports act as endpoint identifiers within a system. Different applications or services are assigned unique port numbers. For example, a web server typically uses port 80, while an SMTP server uses port 25. By associating different port numbers with distinct services on the same IP address, a computer can host multiple sockets simultaneously, each serving a specific purpose.
Step-by-step explanation:
The mention of a "three-way handshake" in the context of establishing a connection indicates the use of TCP. The three-way handshake is a process where the client and server exchange specific packets to ensure a reliable and orderly connection setup, a characteristic feature of TCP.
Sockets are a communication endpoint and are designed to facilitate bidirectional communication. This means that data can be sent and received through the same socket, allowing for two-way communication between the client and server. Bidirectional communication is essential for interactive and dynamic data exchange.
Port numbers play a crucial role in allowing multiple sockets to coexist on the same IP address. Each socket is identified by a unique combination of IP address and port number. For example, a web server using port 80 and an SMTP server using port 25 can both operate on the same IP address. The operating system uses this combination to route incoming data to the appropriate application or service, enabling the hosting of multiple sockets on a single IP address.