Terminology » Networking Basics » ATM vs. Frame Relay: A Detailed Comparison

ATM vs. Frame Relay: A Detailed Comparison

atm frame relay data communication network wan

This article compares ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) and Frame Relay networks, highlighting their similarities and differences. Both technologies were designed to provide B-ISDN (Broadband Integrated Services Digital Network) services.

Comparison Table: ATM vs. Frame Relay

FeatureATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode)Frame Relay
ApplicationPrimarily developed for WANs, but its high data rate capabilities have also been used in LANs.A virtual circuit WAN. It assembles and disassembles packets from various networks like X.25, ATM, and PPP.
OSI LayerOperates at Layer 1 (Physical Layer) and Layer 2 (Data Link Layer) of the OSI model.Operates at Layer 1 and Layer 2 of the OSI model.
Data HandlingData is segmented into ATM cells. Each cell consists of a 5-byte header and a 48-byte payload for data. The 8-bit error control field in the header provides error control.Does not segment data into fixed-size cells. Frames have variable sizes.
Flow & Error ControlProvides flow control only at the User-to-Network Interface (UNI) level.Does not provide flow control or error control. These functions are typically handled by upper layers.
Traffic TypesCan carry voice, video, image, and “bursty” traffic.Primarily carries data traffic.
SpeedProvides high-speed data connections.Provides medium-speed data connections.
Frame SizeFixed frame (cell) size.Variable frame size.
LAN/CAN SuitabilitySuitable for LAN (Local Area Network) and CAN (Campus Area Network) environments.Not typically suitable for LAN and CAN.
QoS (Quality of Service)Supports quantifiable Quality of Service (QoS) parameters.Does not support quantifiable QoS.
Bandwidth AllocationSupports dynamic bandwidth allocation.Supports dynamic bandwidth allocation.
Network TypeSuitable for MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) and WAN (Wide Area Network) environments.Suitable for MAN and WAN environments.

Interworking

Interworking between ATM and Frame Relay has been utilized to leverage the benefits of both technologies in data networks. This allows for a more versatile and efficient network infrastructure.