In data communications, buffering refers to temporarily storing data so that devices with slightly different speeds can communicate smoothly without loss or jitter. Which statement best describes buffering?

Difficulty: Easy

Buffering is the process of temporarily storing the data to allow for small variation in device speeds
Buffering is a method to reduce cross-talks
Buffering is a method to reduce the routing overhead
Buffering is storage of data within the transmitting medium until the receiver is ready to receive
None of the above

Correct Answer: Buffering is the process of temporarily storing the data to allow for small variation in device speeds

Explanation:

Introduction / Context:
Buffering is a core concept in operating systems and networks that helps smooth out timing differences between producers and consumers of data, avoiding underflow or overflow in pipelines.

Given Data / Assumptions:

Two endpoints operate at slightly different rates.
Intermediate memory (buffers) is available.
Lossless delivery is desired.

Concept / Approach:
A buffer is temporary memory that holds data so that a faster sender does not overwhelm a slower receiver. It decouples rates and absorbs jitter. This is used in NIC queues, OS socket buffers, disk I/O, streaming media, and routers.

Step-by-Step Solution:

1) Sender writes to a buffer at its rate.2) Receiver reads from the buffer at its own rate.3) As long as average rates match and buffer capacity suffices, no data is lost.4) Flow control may throttle the sender if the buffer approaches capacity.

Verification / Alternative check:
Observe queue lengths or playback stability; steady buffers indicate effective smoothing of rate variance.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Reducing cross-talks is an analog physical-layer concern, not buffering.Routing overhead is a control-plane issue; buffering does not inherently reduce route computations.“Storage within the transmitting medium” describes store-and-forward switching generically, not the purpose of buffering.“None of the above” is wrong because option A is correct.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing buffering with caching (temporal locality optimization) or with error correction; mixing up flow control and congestion control.

Final Answer:
Buffering is temporary storage that absorbs speed variations.

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In data communications, buffering refers to temporarily storing data so that devices with slightly different speeds can communicate smoothly without loss or jitter. Which statement best describes buffering?

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