devp2p is a set of network Protocols which form the Ethereum Peer-to-Peer (P2P) network. 'Ethereum network' is meant in a broad sense, i.e. devp2p is not specific to a particular blockchain, but should serve the needs of any networked application associated with the Ethereum umbrella.
We aim for an integrated system of orthogonal parts, implemented in multiple programming environments. The system provides discovery of other participants throughout the Internet, as well as secure communication with those participants.
The network protocols in devp2p should be easy to implement from scratch given only the specification, and must work within the limits of a consumer-grade Internet connection. We usually design protocols in a 'specification first' (see Application Programming Interface (API) and Interface) approach, but any specification proposed must be accompanied by a working prototype or implementable within reasonable time.