Circuit Switching is a type of switching, in which a connection is established between the
source and destination before communication. This connection receives the complete
bandwidth of the network until the data is transferred completely. However, circuit switching
can be inefficient and costly due to its requirement for dedicated resources, making it less
suitable for high-traffic or large-scale networks. In this article, we will discuss every point
about Circuit Switching.
What is Circuit Switching?
In circuit switching network resources (bandwidth) are divided into pieces and the bit delay is
constant during a connection. The dedicated path/circuit established between the sender and
receiver provides a guaranteed data rate. Data can be transmitted without any delays once the
circuit is established.
Packet network switching
The telephone system network is one of the examples of Circuit switching. FDM (Frequency
Division Multiplexing) and TDM (Time Division Multiplexing) are two methods of
multiplexing multiple signals into a single carrier.
Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM) is used when multiple data signals are
combined for simultaneous transmission via a shared communication medium. It is a
technique by which the total bandwidth is divided into a series of non-overlapping
frequency sub-bands, where each sub-band carries different signal. Practical use in
radio spectrum & optical fibre to share multiple independent signals.
Time Division Multiplexing (TDM) is a method of transmitting and receiving
independent signals over a common signal path using synchronized switches at each
end of the transmission line. TDM is used for long-distance communication links and
bears heavy data traffic loads from the end user. Time-division multiplexing (TDM) is
also known as a digital circuit switch.
Phases of Circuit Switching
Circuit Establishment: A dedicated circuit between the source and destination is
constructed via a number of intermediary switching centres. Communication signals
can be requested and received when the sender and receiver communicate signals over
the circuit.
Data Transfer: Data can be transferred between the source and destination once the
circuit has been established. The link between the two parties remains as long as they
communicate.
Circuit Disconnection: Disconnection in the circuit occurs when one of the users
initiates the disconnect. When the disconnection occurs, all intermediary linkages
between the sender and receiver are terminated.
Key Characteristics:
Dedicated Connection:
A circuit-switched network establishes a dedicated path between two endpoints,
allowing only those two parties to access the circuit.
Fixed Bandwidth:
The bandwidth assigned to the circuit is constant for the duration of the connection,
ensuring a consistent and reliable data stream.
Connection-Oriented:
A connection must be established before data transfer begins, and the connection
remains active for the duration of the transfer
Handles Voice and Data:
Circuit switching can accommodate both voice and data signals.
Low Latency:
The predetermined path and lack of packet routing contribute to low latency in data
transmission.
Predictable Performance:
The reserved bandwidth and dedicated path ensure predictable performance and
consistent quality.
Security:
The dedicated connection offers a more secure communication channel compared to
packet switching, as only the two communicating parties have access to the circuit.
REFERENCES:
Tanenbaum, A.S, & Wetheral, D.J. (2011). Computer Networks (5th Edition). Prentice hall
Stallings, W. (2007). Data and computer communications (9th Edition). Pearson Education
Kurose, J.F, & Ross, K.W. (2017). Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach (7th
Edition). Pearson
Cisco Networking Academy & Khan Academy and Techopedia
Ray, P.K, & Mukherjee, S. (2016). Healthcare Communication System. Analysis of
Telemedicine Platforms. Springer