The Real-time Transport Protocol (RTP) is a network protocol designed for delivering audio and video over the internet. It provides end-to-end delivery services for real-time data, ensuring that packets are sent in the correct order and with minimal delay. RTP is commonly used in applications like video conferencing and streaming media. RTP typically works alongside the Real-time Transport Control Protocol (RTCP), which monitors the quality of service and provides feedback on the transmission. Together, these protocols help maintain the performance of real-time applications, making them essential for services like VoIP and online gaming.