What is the protocol that allows the distribution of web pages over IP networks?

The correct answer is HTTP, which stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol. This protocol is essential for the functioning of the World Wide Web, as it defines how messages are formatted and transmitted between clients (such as web browsers) and servers. When a user requests a web page by entering a URL into their browser, HTTP governs the process of transferring the requested page from the web server to the user's device.

HTTP works over the Internet Protocol (IP), utilizing TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) as its transport layer to ensure reliable and ordered delivery of data. This ensures that the user's requests for web pages are received and processed correctly.

In contrast, the other protocols mentioned serve different purposes. FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is primarily used for transferring files between client and server across IP networks but is not specifically designed for web page distribution. SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) is used for sending and receiving emails, focusing on message exchange rather than web content. SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) is intended for network management and monitoring tasks rather than serving web pages.

Understanding the role of HTTP is crucial for anyone working with or studying web technologies, as it is a foundational component that enables the interactive and dynamic experiences we have on the web today.