MUD Protocol Reference
Comprehensive guide to Multi-User Dungeon communication protocols - everything you need to understand how MUDs communicate with players and servers.
MUD protocols are standardized communication methods that enable enhanced functionality between Multi-User Dungeon (MUD) servers and clients. These protocols extend the basic Telnet connection to provide features like structured data exchange, compression, terminal capability negotiation, and rich user interfaces.
Most MUD protocols are implemented as Telnet options, following RFC854 and RFC855 specifications for option negotiation. They allow servers and clients to discover each other's capabilities and exchange information beyond simple text.
Transport & Communication
4 protocols
Compression
1 protocol
Terminal & Display
2 protocols
Environment
1 protocol
Chat & Messaging
1 protocol
User Interface
1 protocol
- Enhanced user experience with rich client features
- Reduced bandwidth usage through compression
- Real-time data exchange for GUI updates
- Standardized server information reporting
- Cross-client compatibility and communication