Which of the following best describes the protocol activity related to the TCP three-way handshake?

The TCP three-way handshake is a fundamental process used in establishing a reliable connection between a client and a server in a TCP/IP network. It consists of three steps: the client sends a SYN (synchronize) packet to the server, the server responds with a SYN-ACK (synchronize-acknowledge) packet, and finally, the client sends an ACK (acknowledge) packet back to confirm the connection.

The mention of a man-in-the-middle attack in this context highlights a significant security vulnerability that can occur during the handshake process. In a man-in-the-middle attack, an attacker intercepts the communication between the client and the server, potentially allowing them to eavesdrop, alter, or steal data being transmitted. This risk is particularly concerning in the initial stages of establishing a connection when data such as sequence numbers and initial parameters are exchanged.

Understanding the vulnerabilities associated with the TCP three-way handshake is crucial for implementing robust security measures, such as encryption and authentication protocols, to protect against unauthorized access and data interception. This analysis reflects a comprehensive grasp of how the handshake operates and the potential threats, making it the most accurate description related to TCP protocol activity.