What term is used for the set of rules computers follow to communicate with one another?

The term used for the set of rules that computers follow to communicate with one another is "protocol." In computer science and networking, a protocol defines how data is transmitted over a network and ensures that devices can understand each other during communication. This involves specifying the format of messages, the sequence of message exchanges, error handling, and retransmission details. Protocols are essential for establishing effective communication between different devices and systems, and they encompass a wide range of applications, from simple data transfer to complex interactions like web browsing and email.

Protocols ensure that the communication is standardized, allowing interoperability between different hardware and software. For example, the widely-known HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) governs how web browsers and servers interact, while TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) is the foundational suite enabling internet communication.

The other terms mentioned, such as standard, algorithm, and framework, have distinct meanings in computer science. While a standard may refer to an established norm often related to technology specifications, an algorithm is a precise set of instructions for solving a problem. A framework provides a structure for developing applications but does not specifically pertain to the rules of communication between systems.