What is the second step in a TCP 3-Way Handshake process?

The TCP 3-Way Handshake process is essential for establishing a reliable connection between a client and a server. It consists of three steps, which work together to ensure a successful connection is set up before data transmission begins.

The first step begins with the client sending a SYN (synchronize) packet to the server to initiate the connection. Upon receiving the SYN packet, the server must acknowledge this request, and this is where the second step occurs. The server responds with a SYN-ACK (synchronize-acknowledge) packet. This packet serves a dual purpose: it acknowledges the receipt of the client's SYN packet and signals back to the client that the server is also ready to establish a connection.

In the final step, the client sends back an ACK (acknowledgment) packet to confirm that it has received the server's SYN-ACK packet. This completes the handshake, and a full-duplex communication channel is established.

Thus, the second step in the TCP 3-Way Handshake is when the server responds with a SYN-ACK packet, making this the correct choice.