AI Glossary

AI Termcirca 1994· Added Jun 13, 2026

Agent Communication Protocols

Agent communication protocols define the rules for information exchange between AI agents.

In multi-agent systems, communication protocols are crucial for ensuring effective interaction among agents. These protocols specify the syntax, semantics, and pragmatics of messages exchanged between agents. Common protocols include FIPA ACL (Foundation for Intelligent Physical Agents Agent Communication Language) and KQML (Knowledge Query and Manipulation Language). These frameworks help standardize how agents convey information, make requests, and respond to inquiries, facilitating interoperability and coordination in diverse environments.

Examples

  • Using FIPA ACL for inter-agent communication in a smart grid system.
  • Implementing KQML for knowledge sharing between research bots.
  • Designing custom protocols for communication in a swarm of drones.

Common misconceptions

  • All communication protocols are interchangeable.
  • Protocols only matter for large-scale systems.
  • Human-like language is necessary for agent communication.

Related terms

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