TELECOMMUNICATION PROCESSORS such as modems , multiplexers ,switches and routers perform a variety of support functions between the computer

and other devices in a telecommunications network. A telecommunication processors includes: Modems Multiplexers Internetworked Processors

Modems: These devices are the most common type of communications processor, and are probably the most widely used data communications hardware in business. Functions of modems include: Convert digital computer signals to analog signals for transmission over telephone lines, then to receive these signals and convert them back to digital signals. This process is known as modulation and demodulation. The word "modem" is a contraction of modulate and demodulate. Multiplexers A multiplexer is a communications processor that allows a single communications channel to carry simultaneous data transmissions from many terminals. Typically, a multiplexer merges the transmissions of several terminals atone end of a communications channel, while a similar unit separates the individual transmissions at the receiving end.

Internetwork Processors: Telecommunications networks are interconnected by special-purpose communications processors called internetwork processors such as switches, routers, hubs, and gateways.
Switch - makes connection between telecommunications circuits in a network. Router - intelligent communications processors that interconnects network based on different protocols. Hub - a port switching communications processors. Gateway - connects network with different communications architecture.

 Multiplexer

allows a single communication channel to carry simultaneous data transmissions from many terminals

Traffic Management manage network resources and traffic to avoid congestion and optimize service levels. Security provide authentication , encryption , firewall , auditing and enforcement. Network Monitoring troubleshoot and watch over the network , alerting administrators of potential problems. Capacity Planning survey network resources , traffic patterns and users need.

Topology the structure of the network. Star Network ties end user computer to a central computer. Ring Network ties local computers processors together in a ring on a relatively equal basis. Bus Network local processors share the same communications channel.

Protocol a standard set of rules and procedures for the control of communications in a network. Handshaking the process of exchanging predetermined signals and characters Network Architecture master plan of standard protocols , hardware , software , and interfaces between users and computer systems.

Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) Model A seven layer model that serves as a standard model for network architectures. Model for should messages should be transmitted between two points in a network. Each layer add functions. Transmission Control Protocol/ Internet Protocol TCP/IP A five-layer telecommunications protocol used by the internet.

bandwidth is often used as a synonym for data transfer rate - the amount of data that can be carried from one point to another in a given time period (usually a second). bandwidth is the width of the range (or band) of frequencies that an electronic signal uses on a given transmission medium.