Which organization is responsible for developing standards to improve internet functionality?

The Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) is primarily responsible for developing technical standards and protocols that govern the operation and functionality of the internet. This organization operates through a series of working groups, each focused on specific topics related to internet architecture and protocol development. The IETF's influence is seen in critical protocols such as TCP/IP, which are foundational to internet communication.

Their approach is largely consensus-driven, with an emphasis on open collaboration among engineers and developers from around the world. This allows the IETF to continuously adapt and update standards to meet the evolving needs of internet users and the technological landscape. The work of the IETF ensures that the internet remains interoperable, scalable, and user-friendly, allowing for smooth operation across different devices and networks.

While other organizations like the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) and the Internet Society (ISOC) also play essential roles in the internet ecosystem—focused respectively on web standards and promoting the open development of the internet—the IETF specifically targets the technical groundwork that directly influences how data is transmitted over the internet. Thus, identifying IETF as the correct answer highlights its critical role in enhancing the overall functionality of the internet.