Carrier Sense Multiple Access (CSMA) is a popular way to send packets over computer networks. It checks if the line is free before transmitting to prevent collisions. CSMA is often combined with collision detection for better performance. This method works well on small networks but not on larger ones.
In terms of computer networks, Carrier Sense Multiple Access is part of the data link layer, which is part of the overall pattern of how networks work and Internet Protocol (IP) addresses. Carrier Sense Multiple Access, also known by the acronym CSMA, is a popular way to send packets; packets are bits of data that are sent over a network. Before packets are sent, CSMA checks the line to see if it is in use; if so, wait until the line is free before transmitting.
Carrier Sense Multiple Access is one of the most popular ways to send packets of information across networks. This method is used by Ethernet networks, which are the majority of networked computers in the world. Carrier Sense Multiple Access helps prevent computers from exchanging information at the same time. When computers send packets to each other at the same time, it causes a collision and the data doesn’t go where expected. Carrier Sense Multiple Access retains data until the line is free to make it more likely that it will get to the correct computer and user.
Even if CSMA waits for the line to be free before transmitting, a collision can still occur. This method is therefore often combined with collision detection (CD). When a collision is detected, a jam signal will be sent, alerting the receivers of the collision. The data will then be resent when the line is free, until no data is received or a maximum number of retries is reached.
The important thing to know about Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Detection is what each part of the protocol does. The operator detection portion listens to the network to see if anyone is sending information at the moment. If nothing seems to transmit, go ahead and start sending the packet; if it hears something, it waits for the information to be sent and then proceeds to send the packet.
Multiple access means that nothing can stop two or more network devices from sending information at the same time. The addition of Collision Detection forces Carrier Sense Multiple Access to wait to see if packets that have been sent have become stuck in another packet. If so, Collision Detection waits until no more packets are sent before it starts sending the packet again. A second collision usually does not occur.
The combination of Carrier Sense Multiple Access and Collision Detection works very well on small networks, such as a home office or home business; these companies will typically have 30 computers or fewer, allowing for a much smoother transition and packet sending. When there are more than 30 computers, such as in the case of a large company, the combination of the two doesn’t work as well, as there are more collisions due to constantly sending packets from everyone on the network.
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