The rapid proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices has necessitated advancements in wireless communication protocols to ensure efficient and reliable connectivity. This comprehensive survey explores the evolution, features, challenges, and future prospects of wireless communication protocols tailored for IoT networks. The survey begins with a historical overview, tracing the development from early protocols like Infrared (IR) communication and Bluetooth Classic to modern standards such as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Thread, and LoRaWAN. Advancements in these protocols, including improved data rates, lower power consumption, and enhanced security measures, are thoroughly analyzed. Emerging trends such as edge computing integration, AI and machine learning in communication, blockchain-based security, and quantum communication are discussed to highlight the evolving landscape of IoT network communication. The survey also addresses challenges such as security vulnerabilities, scalability limitations, and interoperability issues that current protocols face. Furthermore, real-world case studies across industries such as industrial IoT, smart cities, healthcare, agriculture, and smart homes demonstrate the practical implementations and benefits of these protocols. Therefore, this survey provides valuable insights for researchers, industry practitioners, and policymakers, along with recommendations for future research directions aimed at addressing current challenges and fostering innovation in wireless communication protocols for IoT networks.