Differentiate between point-to-point and point-to-multipoint communication modes.(4 marks)June/July 2020

Point-to-point communication is a type of communication in which two devices establish a direct connection and exchange data with each other. Point-to-multipoint communication is a type of communication in which one device communicates with multiple devices simultaneously.

Some key differences between point-to-point and point-to-multipoint communication modes are:

1. Number of devices: Point-to-point communication involves only two devices, while point-to-multipoint communication involves one central device and multiple peripheral devices.
2. Connection type: Point-to-point communication involves a direct connection between two devices, while point-to-multipoint communication involves a central device that is connected to multiple peripheral devices through a shared communication channel.
3. Data flow: In point-to-point communication, data flows in both directions between the two devices, while in point-to-multipoint communication, data flows from the central device to the peripheral devices, but not vice versa.
4. Addressability: In point-to-point communication, each device has a unique address, while in point-to-multipoint communication, the central device has a unique address, but the peripheral devices do not.

Point-to-point communication is often used in applications where there is a need for a direct, reliable connection between two devices, such as in telephone systems and leased lines. Point-to-multipoint communication is often used in applications where it is necessary to broadcast data