Protocol State Machine

A Protocol State Machine is a conceptual model that describes how a system or device behaves as it communicates. It outlines various states (like "initial," "waiting," "active") and rules for transitioning between them based on specific events or messages. This helps ensure that data exchanges happen correctly and consistently. Think of it as a map guiding the system through different stages of communication, making sure it responds appropriately at each step, leading to reliable and predictable interactions in networks or software processes.