Golubov A.N., Nikolaenko D.V., Kushnirenko E.N.

Источник: Golubov, A. N. Types of Data Transmission in Computer Networks / A. N. Golubov, D. V. Nikolaenko, E. N. Kushnirenko // YOUNG SCIENTISTS RESEARCHES AND ACHIEVEMENTS IN SCIENCE (НАУЧНЫЕ ИССЛЕДОВАНИЯ И ДОСТИЖЕНИЯ МОЛОДЫХ УЧЕНЫХ). – 2025.

Types of Data Transmission in Computer Networks

Donetsk National Technical University, Donetsk

Abstract: Computer networks have become a part of modern life, providing information transmission around the world. The variety of types of data transmission requires a well-founded approach to its optimal choice while solving a specific task. This research describes various types of data transmission in computer networks. Many types of advantages and disadvantages of data transmission methods in various conditions are identified.

Keywords: data transfer rate, bandwidth, latency, mobility, security, cost, reliability.

Introduction

Computer networks have become an integral part of modern life, connecting people, devices, and information around the world. They are involved in many fields: industry, business, healthcare, education, etc. Any network is based on the transmission of information, that is, the exchange of data between devices. There are various methods of data transmission, each of which has its own characteristics and is suitable for certain tasks. This article describes various types of data transmission and compares their characteristics.

At the dawn of computer networks era, data was transmitted over wired connections. These technologies were characterized by reliability and high data transfer rates, but their use was limited by the need to lay cables and, consequently, lack of mobility. Later, with the advent of wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular communications, data transmission became more flexible and affordable. Nowadays, it is possible to connect to the Internet from almost anywhere using mobile devices, laptops and other devices.

The existing variety of types of data transmission requires a reasonable approach to their optimal choice when solving a specific task. The scientific literature is rich in information in this area. This article provides a brief overview of the types of data transmission. Many articles from scientific journals such as IEEE Transactions on Communications, Computer Networks, as well as books on this topic are considered. Special attention is paid to recent publications reflecting current trends in technology development.

To study the types of transmission, methods were chosen that allow us to evaluate the main characteristics of data transmission methods and compare them. These methods are widely used in scientific research in the field of telecommunications and computer networks, they allow us to provide a comprehensive understanding of the main methods of data transmission, and help us make the best choice of transmission method for solving a specific problem.

Comparison Criteria

The comparison was carried out according to the following criteria:

Data transfer rate: The rate at which data is transferred between devices, measured in bits per second (bps) or megabits per second (Mbps);
Bandwidth: the amount of information that can be transmitted per unit of time, measured in megabytes per second (MB/s) or gigabytes per second (GB/s);
Latency: the time it takes to transfer data from sender to recipient, measured in milliseconds (ms);
Reliability: the degree of connection stability and resistance to interference, estimated by the level of data transmission errors;
Cost: the cost of equipment, installation and maintenance of the network;
Mobility: the degree of freedom of movement of devices on the network;
Security: the level of protection against unauthorized access and interference is assessed by encryption and data protection algorithms.

1. Wired networks

1.1. Twisted pair

Twisted pair is the most common type of cable in modern local area networks.

Data transfer rate: up to 10 Gbit / s (according to Category 8);
Bandwidth: depends on the cable category: the higher the category, the greater the bandwidth;
Latency: low;
Reliability: high, resistant to interference;
Cost: affordable price, relatively easy to install;
Mobility: limited by the need for cable;
Security: high resistance to electromagnetic interference.

1.2. Fiber optic cable

A fiber-optic cable transmits data using light pulses over an optical fiber, providing high speed and bandwidth.

Data transfer rates: up to 100 Gbit / s and above;
Bandwidth: very high, not limited to frequencies and ranges;
Latency: minimal;
Reliability: very high, resistant to electromagnetic fields and interference;
Cost: high, requires special equipment for installation;
Mobility: limited by the need for cable routing;
Security: very high resistance to interference and unauthorized access.

2. Wireless networks

2.1. Wi-Fi

The technology uses radio waves to transmit data, providing high mobility and ease of installation.

Data transfer rate: up to 6 Gbps (according to Wi-Fi 6 standard);
Bandwidth: depends on the Wi-Fi standard and the number of connected devices;
Latency: relatively low, depends on interference and distance;
Reliability: interference from other wireless networks and electronic devices is possible;
Cost: low price, easy to install;
Mobility: high, allows you to connect devices without having to lay cables;
Security: to protect data from unauthorized access requires encryption.

2.2. Bluetooth

The technology is used to communicate between mobile devices, headphones, and other peripheral devices over a short distance.

Data transfer rates: up to 3 Mbit / s;
Bandwidth: limited due to low speed and distance;
Latency: low;
Reliability: relatively high, but possible interference from other wireless devices;
Cost: accessible price, easy to install;
Mobility: high, suitable for connecting mobile devices at a short distance;
Security: required to protect data requires encryption.

2.3. Mobile communication

Mobile communications use radio waves to transmit data through the network of mobile operators, providing access to the Internet using mobile devices.

Data transfer rate: up to 1 Gbit / s (according to 5G standard);
Bandwidth: depends on the standard and network quality;
Latency: relatively high, depending on network quality and the number of users;
Reliability: depends on network quality and coverage;
Cost: increases with increasing data volume;
Mobility: high, allows you to connect devices in different locations;
Security: encryption is required to protect data from unauthorized access.

2.4. Wi-Fi Direct

It is a wireless communication technology that allows two devices to communicate directly with each other without the need to connect to a common Wi-Fi hotspot: the devices can exchange data without requiring an internet connection or other network.

Data transfer rate: up to 250 Mbit / s;
Bandwidth: limited by low speed;
Latency: low;
Reliability: possible interference from other wireless networks and electronic devices;
Cost: low price, relative ease of installation;
Mobility: high, suitable for connecting mobile devices at a short distance;
Security: Encryption is required to protect data from unauthorized access.

3. Satellite communications

This connection is used to transmit data over long distances where other transmission methods are not available.

Data transfer rate: up to 100 Mbit / s;
Bandwidth: depends on the type of satellite and network quality;
Latency: high, due to the distance to the satellite;
Reliability: possible interference is possible due to weather conditions and space debris;
Cost: extremely high, requires special equipment and licenses;
Mobility: high, it is possible to connect to connect the device in remote locations, in conditions of lack of other networks;
Security: data protection requires encryption.

Conclusions

Wired networks tend to provide higher speed and reliability, but are limited in mobility. Wireless networks provide freedom of movement, but are less reliable and have lower data transfer speeds. Satellite communications are used in conditions where other methods are not available, but at the same time it has a high cost and signal delay. The choice of the optimal method depends on the specific requirements, limitations and conditions. It is important to consider the following factors:

Distance: wired networks are optimal for short distances, wireless networks are suitable for medium distances, and satellite communications are used for long distances;
Transmission speed: fiber optic cables provide the highest possible speed, wired networks are next, followed by wireless networks;
Cost: wired networks have the lowest cost (compared to wireless networks and satellite communications);
Security: compared to wireless networks, wired ones have greater protection from interference and unauthorized access;
Mobility: compared to wired networks, wireless networks and satellite communications have greater mobility.

In this article, various types of data transmission in computer networks were presented and compared, both traditional technologies and the latest developments in the field of wireless communications and satellite Internet were considered. It can be concluded that each data transfer method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of the optimal option depends on the specific requirements and conditions of use.

The results of this research can be used by computer network developers, Internet service providers, and other telecommunications professionals.

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