Efficient implementation of a protocol can be patent encumbered.
While a protocol exists forever, implementations mightn't, and there are many failed protocols. But can endure through network effects.
While a protocol exists forever, implementations mightn't, and there are many failed protocols. But can endure through network effects.
And a part of the self-responsible philosophy is also that "there is no implementation" is not even an excuse. As long as there are free programming languages and affordable computers (I.e. a raspberry pi) then you can very well create your own implementation. It might take years to even start due to the requirements to learn programming, but it's not impossible at all.