Operation modes in Ethernet
There are two modes of operation for Ethernet networks; the duplex decides whether the communication is unidirectional or bidirectional. There are two duplex modes: Half Duplex and Full Duplex.
- Half Duplex- Data transfer in this sort of communication is one-way only, therefore a device can either send or receive frames, not both. This form of communication was employed when HUBs were prevalent in networks. For example, walkie-talkie, where you can only do one of those two things at once: talk or listen. CSCMA/CD is used to reduce collisions because they are likely to occur when using half-duplex communication.
- Full Duplex- Bidirectional data flow is made possible that indicating that devices utilizing this mode can simultaneously send and receive frames. This is typically the default mode of operation in contemporary switches. There are very few risks of collisions.
Switch Concepts and Configuration
A switch is a discrete piece of hardware that connects various computers to a single local area network (LAN). In the OSI model, network switches function at layer 2 (Data link layer).
- On the basis of MAC addresses, switches are utilized to forward the packets.
- The switch makes it possible for the device that has been addressed to receive the data.
- It checks the destination address before properly routing the packet.
- Full duplex operation is used.
- Since the source and destination are communicating directly, packet collision is minimal.
- It does not broadcast the message since its bandwidth is constrained.
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