Types of Communication Channel



The term channel means the medium through which the message travels from the transmitter to the receiver.

In other words, we can say that the function of the channel is to provide a physical connection between the transmitter and the receiver.

Depending on the mode of transmission, we may classify the communication channels into following two categories .

  1. Channels based on guided propagation
  2. Channels based on free propagation

Guided Communication Channels: 

These are the channels that use a physical medium to transmit data from one device to another. The data is transmitted through the medium in the form of electromagnetic waves or signals. Examples of guided communication channels include wired communication channels such as coaxial cables, twisted pair cables, and fiber-optic cables.

  • Twisted Pair Cable: This type of cable consists of two or more insulated copper wires twisted together. It is commonly used for telephone lines and Ethernet networks.

  • Coaxial Cable: This type of cable consists of a central conductor surrounded by insulation, a metal shield, and an outer cover. It is commonly used for cable TV and broadband internet connections.

  • Fiber-Optic Cable: This type of cable consists of thin strands of glass or plastic fibers that transmit data using light waves. It is commonly used for high-speed internet connections and long-distance communication.


Unguided Communication Channels: 
These are the channels that do not use a physical medium to transmit data from one device to another. Instead, the data is transmitted through the air in the form of electromagnetic waves or signals. Examples of unguided communication channels include wireless communication channels such as radio waves, microwaves, and infrared signals.

  1. Radio Waves: This type of channel uses radio waves to transmit data between devices. It is commonly used for wireless communication, such as in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth networks.

  2. Microwaves: This type of channel uses high-frequency radio waves to transmit data over short to medium distances. It is commonly used for cellular networks, satellite communication, and radar systems.

  3. Infrared Waves: This type of channel uses infrared waves to transmit data between devices. It is commonly used for short-range communication, such as in remote controls and infrared data transfer between smartphones.