Chapter 7: Switching & Multiplexing
7.1. Switching Concept and Types
Switching Concept
Switching is a technique used in communication networks to transfer data from a source to a
destination through intermediate nodes. It allows multiple devices to share the same
communication infrastructure efficiently.
Why Switching is Needed
• Direct connections between every device are impractical.
• Reduces cost by sharing communication links.
• Improves network efficiency and scalability.
Basic Components
• Sender (Source)
• Receiver (Destination)
• Switching Nodes (Intermediate devices like routers/switches)
• Transmission Links
Types of Switching
1. Circuit Switching
Definition
A communication method where a dedicated path is established before data transmission
begins, and remains reserved until the communication ends.
Phases of Circuit Switching
1. Setup Phase – Path is established
2. Data Transfer Phase – Continuous data flow
3. Teardown Phase – Path is released
Characteristics
• Fixed bandwidth
• Constant delay after setup
• No data loss once connection established
Example
• Traditional Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN)
Advantages
• Guaranteed bandwidth
• Reliable communication
• No congestion during transmission
Disadvantages
• Inefficient use of resources
• Call setup time required
• Not suitable for data traffic
2. Packet Switching
Definition
Data is divided into small units called packets, which are transmitted independently across the
network.
How It Works
• Each packet contains:
o Source address
o Destination address
o Sequence number
• Packets may travel different paths.
• Reassembled at the destination.
Types of Packet Switching
• Datagram Approach
o No fixed path
o Each packet routed independently
• Virtual Circuit Approach
o Logical path established before transmission
Characteristics
• Dynamic routing
• Efficient bandwidth utilization
• Variable delay (latency)
Example
• The Internet
Advantages
• Efficient and flexible
• Fault-tolerant
• Supports multiple users simultaneously
Disadvantages
• Packet loss or delay possible
• Requires error checking and reassembly
3. Message Switching
Definition
Entire message is sent as a single unit and stored-and-forwarded at each intermediate node.
Characteristics
• No dedicated path
• Large storage required at nodes
• High latency
Status
• Obsolete, replaced by packet switching
Advantages
• No need for continuous connection
Disadvantages:
• Slow transmission
• Not suitable for real-time communication
7.2 Multiplexing Concepts and Types
Multiplexing Concept
➢ In data communication, there might be a need to share a single media for multiple
communications (media/bandwidth sharing) in order to utilize the available bandwidth
wisely to achieve specific goals.
➢ Sharing of a single media (fiber, coaxial, microwave.) is known as multiplexing.
➢ Whenever the bandwidth of a medium linking two devices is greater than the bandwidth
needs of the devices, the link can be shared.
➢ Multiplexing is the set of techniques that allows the (simultaneous) transmission of
multiple signals across a single data link.
➢ As data and telecommunications use increases, so does traffic.
Key Components
• Multiplexer (MUX): Combines signals
• Transmission Medium: Shared channel
• Demultiplexer (DEMUX): Separates signals at destination
• In the above figure, there are n inputs to a multiplexer.
• The multiplexer is connected by a single data link to a demultiplexer.
• The link is able to carry n separate channels of data.
• The multiplexer combines (multiplexes) data from the n input lines and transmits over a
higher capacity data link.
• The demultiplexer accepts the multiplexed data stream, separates (demultiplexes) the data
according to channel, and delivers them to the appropriate output lines.
Types of Multiplexing
1. Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM)
Definition
The available bandwidth is divided into non-overlapping frequency bands, each carrying a
separate signal.
Features
• Simultaneous transmission
• Requires guard bands to avoid interference
Applications
• Radio broadcasting
• Cable TV
Advantages
• Continuous transmission
Disadvantages:
• Bandwidth wastage due to guard bands
2. Time Division Multiplexing (TDM)
Definition
Multiple signals share the same channel by transmitting in different time slots.
Types
a. Synchronous TDM
• Fixed time slots assigned
• Slots sent even if no data
b. Asynchronous (Statistical) TDM
• Time slots assigned dynamically
• More efficient
Applications
• Digital telephony
Advantages
• Efficient bandwidth usage
Disadvantages:
• Synchronization required
3. Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM)
Definition
Used in fiber optics; different signals are transmitted using different light wavelengths (colors).
Types
• CWDM (Coarse WDM)
• DWDM (Dense WDM)
Applications
• High-speed optical communication
Advantages
• Very high capacity
Disadvantages:
• Expensive equipment
4. Code Division Multiplexing (CDM / CDMA)
Definition
All users transmit over the same frequency band simultaneously using unique codes.
Features
• Spread spectrum technology
• Signals separated using codes
Applications
• Mobile networks (3G)
Advantages
• High security
• Resistant to interference
Disadvantages:
• Complex implementation
7.3 Introduction to Ethernet & Wireless Networks
7.3.1 Ethernet
Definition
Ethernet is a wired LAN technology used to connect computers in a local network.
Key Concepts
• Uses frames to transmit data
• Each device has a MAC address
• Uses CSMA/CD (Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Detection)
How Ethernet Works
1. Device checks if channel is free
2. Sends data
3. Detects collision
4. Retransmits if needed
Ethernet Standards
• Fast Ethernet: 100 Mbps
• Gigabit Ethernet: 1 Gbps
• 10 Gigabit Ethernet: 10 Gbps
Advantages
• High speed and reliability
• Secure (physical access required)
• Low latency
Disadvantages
• Limited mobility
• Installation cost (cabling)
7.3.2 Wireless Networks
Definition
Wireless networks use radio waves or electromagnetic signals to transmit data without physical
cables.
Types of Wireless Networks
1. Wi-Fi (Wireless LAN)
• Short-range communication
• Used in homes, offices
2. Cellular Networks
• Wide-area coverage
• Uses base stations (e.g., 4G, 5G)
3. Bluetooth
• Short-range communication for devices
Wireless Communication Features
• Mobility
• Easy deployment
• Flexible connectivity
Advantages
• No physical cables
• Supports mobile users
• Quick installation
Disadvantages
• Security risks (hacking)
• Signal interference
• Lower reliability than wired networks