Basic Network Terminologies

 Basic Network Terminologies

Understanding key network terms is essential for grasping how data flows and is transmitted in computer networks. Below are some fundamental concepts:

1. Data

Definition: Raw digital information that is transmitted, processed, or stored in a network.

Examples of Data in Networking:

• Text, images, audio, and video files sent over the internet.
• Packets traveling across a network (e.g., an email or webpage request).

2. Data Rate

Definition: The speed at which data is transmitted over a network, measured in bits per second (bps).

Common Data Rate Units:

• Kbps (Kilobits per second) = 1,000 bps
• Mbps (Megabits per second) = 1,000,000 bps
• Gbps (Gigabits per second) = 1,000,000,000 bps

Example: A 1 Gbps fiber connection can transfer 1 billion bits per second.

3. Baud Rate

Definition: The number of signal changes (modulations) per second in a communication channel.

Baud Rate vs. Data Rate:

• Data rate (bps) = Baud rate × Number of bits per signal change
• If a signal transmits 2 bits per change and the Baud rate is 1000 Baud, the Data rate = 2000 bps.

Example: In modern modems, Baud rate and bit rate are different because advanced modulation techniques send multiple bits per signal change.

4. Peak Data Rate

Definition: The maximum possible data transmission speed a network or device can achieve under ideal conditions.

Example:

• Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) can reach 9.6 Gbps (Peak Data Rate), but actual speeds depend on interference, distance, and device capabilities.

5. Bursty Data

Definition: Data that is transmitted in short, sudden bursts instead of a continuous stream.

Examples of Bursty Data:

• Streaming services buffering video in bursts.
• IoT sensors sending periodic updates instead of constant signals.
• Email and instant messaging apps transmitting data in bursts when new messages arrive.

Summary Table

Term	Definition	Example
Data	Digital information transmitted over a network	Sending a video file
Data Rate	Speed of data transfer (bps, Mbps, Gbps)	100 Mbps internet speed
Baud Rate	Signal changes per second in a communication channel	9600 baud modem
Peak Data Rate	Maximum possible transmission speed	5G networks reaching 10 Gbps
Bursty Data	Data sent in short bursts instead of a continuous flow	WhatsApp messages arriving in chunks