SYN (TCP Synchronize)

The SYN control bit starts a TCP connection by initiating the three‑way handshake; a SYN packet indicates a request to synchronize sequence numbers.

#network#rfc#tcp

Last updated: 2025-08-22T00:00:00.000Z

Differences across sources

Parallel sources use distinct terminology or emphasize different aspects. Review each citation to understand scope and normative intent.

Evidence

RFC RFC 9293 (Transmission Control Protocol) (2022-08) Normative evidence

A TCP connection is initiated by an active opener sending a SYN segment to the passive opener.

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RFC RFC 793 (TCP) [Obsoleted by RFC 9293] (1981-09) Informative evidence

The synchronization (SYN) segment is used to initiate a connection.

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Mappings

Network+ TCP/IP CISSP Domain 4

More context

SYN is the first step of the TCP three‑way handshake (SYN → SYN‑ACK → ACK). It establishes initial sequence numbers and negotiates connection parameters.

See also