What is PCP Full Form in Computer?

The PCP full form in computer is Port Control Protocol. It is a computer networking protocol that allows sites on IPv4 or IPv6 networks to specify how incoming IPv4 or IPv6 packets are translated and forwarded by an upstream router that conducts network address translation or packet filtering. By allowing hosts to define explicit port forwarding rules, handling of network traffic may be readily adjusted to make hosts positioned behind NATs or firewalls reachable from the rest of the, which is required for many applications.

Applications of PCP:

PCP enables equipment and applications to specify explicit mappings between an external IP address, protocol, and port and an internal IP address, protocol, and port. With such explicit mappings in place, inbound traffic can reach hosts behind a NAT or firewall, allowing them to either expand their server duties beyond the confines of local networks or use other services in a more efficient manner. Created mappings are permanent in the sense that they have a known lifetime that can be extended, similar to how Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol leases are implemented.

Security in PCP:

PCP is deemed secure as long as explicit mappings do not exceed the scope of implicit mappings. In other words, implicit mappings are formed as a result of how NAT devices and firewalls handle regular outbound client connections, implying that PCP is secure as long as no additional mapping possibilities are provided via the explicit mapping process.