Network Services

Packet switching

Packet switching is a way of sending information with small packets over a network. Packet switching is mainly used in WAN’s (Wide Area Networks). The information is split into small packets and they are sent individually to the network. The small packets allow the data to be sent easily across the network.

Benefits

·         It is reliable. If there is any data lost the packets can be resent so no data is lost.

·         It can direct the traffic via a variety of routes

Limitations

·         It takes time to put together the data so it is not good if you are sending important information.

·         Packet switching is not very good for small data packets. For example, if the data packet is 600            bytes long, it would need to be split up into two 512 bytes.

ISDN

ISDN is short for integrated services digital network. It is a telephone line that shares voice and data communications. There are two types of ISDN, BRI which is basic rate interface which consists of two 64bps B channel lines and 1 D channel line. To further explain, a B (bearer) channel line is the main data transfer line in an ISDN, a D (delta) channel line is for transmitting control information. The Second type of ISDN is PRI or primary rate interface. This contains 23 B channels and 1 D channel unless you are in Europe there are 30 B channels and one D channel.

Benefits

Quick connection time (2 seconds) ISDN provides a high data rate

Limitations

• ISDN line can be very expensive
• ISDN requires special digital devices

Wireless Access Protocol

Wireless Access Protocol (WAP) is an older way to connect to the internet. It allows you to easily connect to the internet wirelessly. There is new ways to connect now such as 3/4G but WAP is still used on some phones. WAP allows you to connect to simple things such as your emails or Google. 

Benefits

·         It is a simple way to connect to the internet. 

·         Could be used on your phone.

·         Can access simple things such as your email.  

  

Limitations

·         It is out dated. 

·        Cannot connect to more complex sites that have a lot  of information.

·        It is slow to connect to.

Broadband is general heading for a variety of technologies which include Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL) for transmitting data at higher speeds and allows you to connect to the Internet and provides a continuous connection. For some internet service providers (ISP) which is a company that provides internet. Broadband is provided by sharing a range or frequencies unused by other services.

Positives

·         A broadband connection is "always on" - no waiting for dial-up connectivity if you still use                  this route to the Internet.

·         Fixed price, you can budget effectively.

Negatives

·         Hackers who may either live in nearby neighborhood or pass around can hack into your                      wireless broadband network without your permission and can misuse it.

·         The network can be less stable.