Introduction to TCP/IP and Data Flow

1. Data Flow Data flow in computer networks refers to the structured movement, management, and transformation of data packets between devices, ensuring efficient, error-free transmission. Data flow generally involves preparing data at the source, moving it through network infrastructure (routers/switches),, and reconstructing it at the destination. Direction of Transfer: Data flow can be categorized by direction: Simplex: One-way only (e.g., computer to printer). Half-Duplex: Two-way, but not at the same time (e.g., walkie-talkie). Full-Duplex: Simultaneous two-way communication (e.g., telephone call). Encapsulation and Decapsulation Encapsulation Encapsulation is the process of adding protocol information (headers and trailers) to data as it moves down the network stack from the sender. Decapsulation Decapsulation is the reverse process at the receiver, where each layer removes its corresponding header/trailer to reveal the original data. 2. Network Layers Overview Layer 1 — Physical