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Data Flow

Data flow is the movement of data between devices in a computer network, crucial for accurate and efficient communication. It includes various features such as direction of transfer (simplex, half-duplex, full-duplex), transmission methods (packet, circuit, message switching), and protocols for error handling and flow control. Real-world, it can be likened to package delivery, where data is sent from sender to receiver through a structured process.

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454 views2 pages

Data Flow

Data flow is the movement of data between devices in a computer network, crucial for accurate and efficient communication. It includes various features such as direction of transfer (simplex, half-duplex, full-duplex), transmission methods (packet, circuit, message switching), and protocols for error handling and flow control. Real-world, it can be likened to package delivery, where data is sent from sender to receiver through a structured process.

Uploaded by

tech4fresherss
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Data Flow

What is Data Flow?


Data flow refers to the movement of data between devices or processes in a computer network. It
shows how data is transferred from a source (like a sender) to a destination (like a receiver). Data
flow is essential for communication, ensuring that information reaches its target accurately and
efficiently.

OR

In a computer network, data flow refers to the movement of data from one device to another. It
describes how information travels across the network, including its direction, path, and the
processes involved in sending and receiving the data.

Key Features of Data Flow in a Computer Network


1. Direction of Data Transfer
Data flow can occur in three primary directions:
• Simplex: Data flows in one direction only (e.g., keyboard to computer).
• Half-Duplex: Data flows in both directions but one direction at a time (e.g., walkie-
talkies).
• Full-Duplex: Data flows in both directions simultaneously (e.g., phone calls).
2. Data Transmission Methods
• Packet Switching: Data is broken into packets and sent separately, then reassembled
at the destination.
• Circuit Switching: A dedicated path is established for the entire data transfer (used
in traditional telephony).
• Message Switching: Entire messages are sent and stored at intermediate nodes
before reaching the destination.
3. Protocols
Rules and standards (like TCP/IP) ensure reliable and error-free data flow. They manage
tasks such as sequencing, acknowledgment, and retransmission of lost data.
4. Error Handling
Mechanisms like checksums or parity bits detect and correct errors during data transfer to
maintain data integrity.
5. Flow Control
Ensures that the sender doesn’t overwhelm the receiver by managing data transmission
speed. Examples include:
• Stop-and-Wait Protocol
• Sliding Window Protocol
6. Congestion Control
Prevents network overload by managing data flow rates and ensuring smooth traffic even
during heavy usage.
7. Synchronization
Both sender and receiver must be synchronized to ensure the data is understood correctly,
especially in real-time applications.
8. Data Security
Encryption and authentication methods protect data flow from unauthorized access or
tampering.

Real-World Example
Think of data flow like delivering a package. The sender (warehouse) packs the data, labels it
(address/protocol), and sends it through a network (postal service). The package reaches the
receiver (customer) correctly if the system works smoothly.

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