SMB Protocols, or Server Message Block Protocols, are network communication protocols primarily used for sharing files, printers, and other resources on a network. They enable applications to read and write to files and request services from server programs. SMB operates over the TCP/IP protocol, making it widely compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. Originally developed by IBM in the 1980s, SMB has evolved through several versions, with SMB 2.0 and SMB 3.0 introducing improvements in performance and security. These protocols are essential for enabling seamless file sharing and resource access in local area networks (LANs) and are commonly used in enterprise environments.