NetBIOS over TCP/IP
TLDR: NetBIOS over TCP/IP (NBT), introduced in 1985, is a networking protocol that adapts the NetBIOS interface to work over TCP/IP networks. This extension allows applications using NetBIOS services, such as name resolution, session establishment, and data transport, to operate seamlessly in TCP/IP environments. NBT became a foundational component for early networked systems, enabling resource sharing and connectivity in mixed-protocol networks.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NetBIOS_over_TCP/IP
NetBIOS over TCP/IP facilitates key network functions, including name resolution through a distributed NetBIOS Name Service (NBNS), similar to the Domain Name System (DNS). It also supports datagram services for message delivery and session services for reliable connections. This makes NBT a versatile solution for early networking needs, especially in Microsoft's Windows systems, where it played a crucial role in local area networking (LAN) setups.
https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/win32/netbios/netbios-over-tcp-ip
Despite its utility, NetBIOS over TCP/IP has been largely replaced by more advanced protocols like DNS and SMB Direct in modern systems. However, it remains relevant in legacy networks and backward compatibility scenarios. NBT continues to be a key enabler for resource sharing in older Windows operating systems and provides insight into the evolution of networking technologies.
https://www.kernel.org/doc/html/latest/networking/netbios.html S