What IS a network protocol???

Question

I have scoured the internet and books, and this is what I know: a netw protocol is a set of rules and standards that enables a computer to communicate over the network. What I don't understand is this: is a network protocol just a written paper document that says: " a header has to be 8 bits long and the time-to live field has to be 7 bits long..." and information like that, or is a protocol actual software that applies those rules (f.ex. it assembles and disassembles datapackages according to certain rules)? Let me define my problem in an example: in the justice system there is the written law and the people who enforce this law. Is the protocol the written document like the lawbook or is software that enforces rules in data transmission like the poilceman enforces the law. policeman who enforces the law?

Thanks for your answer. If you know a website that supports your answer, that would be a bonus.

Answer 1

I would say a protocol is like a written law that defines how a system must operate.