Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI) - Tutorial

Welcome to the training section of CoreNetworkZ Tech Solutions. Today, I am discussing a popular fiber optic connections network standard, FDDI.

FDDI stands for Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI), a Local Area Network standard. Today, we check the data transfer speed, maximum distance it supports, different versions, working principle, and the specifications of this network standard.

Some technicians asked me why the FDDI is popular with ISPs. The reason is that it supports high bandwidth and security.

Communication through this standard is very secure due to its dual-ring structure. As you understand, the FDDI standard uses the primary ring for communication. It supports up to 100 Mbps in standard case.

The second token ring is for possible backup ( in case of the failure of the primary ring). If the second ring is also used to carry data, the total speed will increase up to 200 Mbps.

Now, let us check the different versions of this data communication standard.

1. FDDI-II

   This version is suitable for transmitting video, with voice, over a network. FDDI-2 supports the transmission of voice and video information as well as data. This version adds the capability to add circuit-switched service to the network.

2. FDDI Full Duplex Technology (FFDT)

   It uses the same network infrastructure but can potentially support data rates up to 200 Mbps. So, this standard can offer the data transfer rate of an ordinary FDDI network where both Token Rings transfer data.

Many beginners find the workings of FDDI confusing. So, read this part carefully.

FDDI uses a dual-ring architecture with traffic on each ring flowing in opposite directions. If the data transfer in ring 1 is in the clockwise direction, the second ring sends data in an anticlockwise direction.

Fiber Distributed Data Interface is treated as highly secure because of its dual-ring character. FDDI uses optical fiber as the primary transmission medium, but it also can run over copper cabling.

FDDI is a collection of four specifications, each with a specific function. The function of the multi-specification is to provide high-speed connectivity between upper-layer protocols.

1. Physical Layer Protocol (PHY)
   
   
2. Physical-Medium Dependent (PMD)
   
   
3. Media Access Control (MAC)
   
   
4. Station Management (SMT)

To read more about the FDDI specification, visit this link.

I believe you found this article helpful. Feel free to share your comments about FDDI below.