A B A B

(a) Communication network with (b) Communication network with

two nodes connected by a unidirec- two nodes connected by a bidirec-
tional link tional link

A B

C
(c) Communication network with
three nodes

Figure 1.1: Graphical representation of communication networks

1.2 Issues in Communication Network Design

While the above definition of a communication network is general enough to encompass the
postal system, a newspaper distribution system, the announcement sytem at a railway station
and FM radio, we will be focussing our attention on computer communication networks. In
computer networks, the information to be communicated can always be represented by a string
of bits and the communication is performed using electrical or electromagnetic signals. As a
consequence of the first characteristic, the communication systems constituting such a network
are invariably digital communication systems. By a computer, we mean any electronic device
capable of storing, transmitting and receiving digital information. For example, a cell phone,
a pager or even a satellite can be considered a computer in this context. Another prevalent
characteristic of computer communication networks is that very long information bit strings
are broken down into smaller bit strings called frames or packets which are then transferred
across the network sequentially. The advantages of using packets will be explained in the next
few sections as and when the appropriate context arises. Let us consider the issues involved in
designing a computer communication network.

1.2.1 The Physical Channel

Communication between geographically separated locations requires some physical phenomenon

to enable the information transfer. The physical medium through which the communication
takes place is called a channel. For example, when we speak the acoustic channel is carrying the
sound waves generated to the listener.

In the case of computer communications, the channel is chosen based on user requirements and
system parameters. For example, if the distance of between the communication systems is small
and if their locations are fixed, a conducting wire is used to physically connect them and electrical
signals are used to transfer information between them. Such a channel is called a wired channel.
A fibre optic channel where the information is transferred using optical pulses travelling along
an optical fibre is also an example of a wired channel. Even if the distances involved are short
but the communication systems are required to be mobile the information is transferred using
electromagnetic waves radiated through free space. Such a channel is called a wireless channel. A
wireless channel is also chosen for long-distance communication between fixed locations because