What is the sequence of the TCP three-way handshake process?

The correct sequence in the TCP three-way handshake process is SYN, SYN-ACK, and then ACK. This protocol is essential for establishing a reliable connection between a client and a server in TCP/IP networks.

During the handshake, the process begins with the initiating device sending a SYN (synchronize) packet to the server to request a connection. In response, the server replies with a SYN-ACK (synchronize-acknowledge) packet, acknowledging receipt of the SYN packet and indicating that it is ready to establish a connection. Finally, the client sends an ACK (acknowledge) packet back to the server, confirming that it received the SYN-ACK. This successfully completes the connection setup, allowing data transmission to begin.

The chosen sequence correctly illustrates the entire process of initiating a TCP connection, which is vital for ensuring that both the client and server are ready to communicate. Understanding this sequence is crucial for troubleshooting connectivity issues in network environments.