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Line Configuration in Computer Network
In this tutorial, we will learn about the line configuration in Computer Networking. We will also define the Types of Line Configuration and illustrate it with the help of its diagram.
By Monika Jha Last updated : May 04, 2023
What is Line Configuration in Computer Network?
The way two or more communication devices attached to a link referred to as Line configuration. A physical communication pathway that transfers data from one communication device to another is referred to as a link.
For visualization, it is simplest to imagine any link as a line drawn between two points. For communication to occur, two devices must be connected in some way to the same link at the same time.
Line Configuration defines the attachment of communication devices to the link.
Types of Line Configuration
The following are the two types of line configuration in computer network:
- Point-to-Point Line Configuration
- Multipoint Configuration
1. Point-to-Point Line Configuration
- A point-to-point connection provides a dedicated link between two communication devices.
- Any device which can send or receive data can be communication devices.
- Communication devices can be a computer, printer or any other device that is capable to send and receive data.
- The entire capacity of the channel is reserved for transmission between those two communication devices.
- Most point-to-point connections (PPP) use an actual length of wire or cable to connect the two end (devices), but other options are also possible such as microwave or satellite links.
- It is considered to be one of the easiest and most conventional network connection. It is also the simplest connection to establish and understand.
For Example: Two phones connected end to end for two-way communication and Point-to-Point connection between the remote control and Television for changing the channels.
Point- to- Point Connection
2. MultiPoint Line Configuration
It is also known as Multidrop Line configuration. In this configuration, two or more devices share a single link.
The capacity of the channel is shared because more than two devices share the link, either spatially or temporarily.
Spatially Shared Line Configuration
In this line configuration, several devices can share a single channel simultaneously.
Time Shared Line Configuration
In this line configuration, users must take turns using the link.
MultiPoint Connection