Computer Networks
Module I
Ms. Monica Charate
Data Flow in Computer Networks
Definition:
Data flow is the movement or transmission of data
between two or more devices connected through a
communication network. It describes the direction in
which data travels between the sender and the receiver.
Types of Data Flow
1. Simplex Communication
Definition: Data flows in only one direction. One device acts only as the
sender, and the other acts only as the receiver.
Advantages:
● Simple communication
● Low cost
● No collisions
Disadvantages:
● No feedback from the receiver
● One-way communication only
Applications:
● Television broadcasting
● Radio broadcasting
● Computer keyboard to CPU
2. Half-Duplex Communication
Definition: Data flows in both directions, but only one direction at
a time. Each device can send and receive data, but not
simultaneously.
Advantages:
● Efficient use of communication channel
● Lower cost than full-duplex
Disadvantages:
● Cannot send and receive at time
● Communication is slower
Applications:
● Walkie-talkies
● CB radios
● Wireless communication systems
3. Full-Duplex Communication
Definition: Data flows in both directions simultaneously. Both
devices can transmit and receive data at the same time.
Advantages:
● Fast communication
● High efficiency
● No waiting for transmission
Disadvantages:
● Higher implementation cost
● More complex hardware
Applications:
● Telephone calls
● Video conferencing
● Modern Ethernet networks
● Online gaming
What is Network Topology
Topology is the physical or logical arrangement of devices and links
in a network.
It determines:
● How devices are connected
● How data travels
● Network performance
● Reliability
● Scalability
HYBRID TOPOLOGY
Computer Network
A computer network is a collection of two or more computers
and other devices (such as printers, servers, and routers) that
are connected to each other through communication links.
Objectives
Share data and information
Share hardware resources (printers, scanners, storage)
Share software applications
Enable communication (email, chat, video conferencing)
Improve reliability through backup systems
Reduce operational costs
Support remote access and collaboration
Characteristics of a Computer Network
Resource sharing
High-speed communication
Scalability
Reliability
Security
Flexibility
Fault tolerance
1. Personal Area Network (PAN)
A Personal Area Network (PAN) is a network that connects devices within a very short distance
(typically 1–10 meters) around a single person.
Characteristics
● Smallest type of network
● Used for personal devices
● Wired or wireless (Bluetooth, USB)
Advantages
● Easy to set up
● Low cost
● Portable
● Low power consumption
Disadvantages
● Very limited range
● Low data transfer speed compared to LAN
● Supports only a few devices
Applications
● Connecting a smartphone to wireless earbuds
● Smartwatches and fitness bands
● Bluetooth keyboards and mice
● File sharing between mobile devices
2. Local Area Network (LAN)
A Local Area Network (LAN) connects computers within a limited area such as a home, office, school, or laboratory.
Characteristics
● Covers one building or campus block
● High-speed communication
● Usually privately owned
Advantages
● High data transfer speed
● Easy resource sharing
● Cost-effective
● Secure and reliable
Disadvantages
● Limited coverage area
● Initial installation cost
● Requires network administration
Applications
● School computer labs
● Office networks
● Home Wi-Fi networks
● Libraries
3. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
A Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) connects multiple LANs across a city or metropolitan area.
Characteristics
● Covers a city or large town
● Faster than WAN
● Often operated by Internet service providers or large organizations
Advantages
● Connects multiple campuses or offices
● High-speed communication
● Good scalability
Disadvantages
● Expensive infrastructure
● Complex maintenance
● Security challenges
Applications
● City-wide government offices
● Cable television networks
● Banks with branches across a city
● Internet service providers
4. Wide Area Network (WAN)
A Wide Area Network (WAN) connects computers across countries or continents using public or private communication links.
Characteristics
● Largest type of network
● Connects multiple MANs and LANs
● Uses fiber-optic cables, satellites, and leased lines
Advantages
● Global communication
● Remote access
● Resource sharing across long distances
● Supports cloud computing
Disadvantages
● High installation and maintenance cost
● Slower than LAN
● More security risks
● Complex management
Applications
● The Internet
● International banking
● Multinational companies
● Cloud services