PDNs or Public Data Networks are a type of network that is established and operated by some sort of telecommunications administration. Alternatively, they can be run by a private operating agency if they are specifically intended to provide data transmission services to the public. The opposite of a Private Data Network, which is operated by a company or group in order to share and transmit info only among members and select participants.
Technipages Explains Public Data Network (PDN)
PDNs are open to the public, as the name implies, and rely on a circuit- or packet-switch network. It can transmit digital data between participants, or from the publisher to a receiving party. The provider needs to give access to one of several technologies to make it viable – the most common being cell relay. Other options include frame relay and X.25 – each of them is a type of connection.
PDNs generally have a specific, dedicated amount of bandwidth. Where with other types, it can depend on structure, traffic and other factors, PDNs use a committed information rate to provide a steady and predictable data connection. Costs for access will depend on the guaranteed rate – the higher, the more expensive. This technology does allow for increases in traffic (and thus increased need for bandwidth). This is known as surges, and providers usually charge their users extra for it.
While PDNs are indeed public, they are usually not free, and don’t have to be. If someone wants to use one, they have to pay for temporary or ongoing access to the data connection.
Common Uses of Public Data Network (PDN)
- PDNs are dependant on cell or frame relay services.
- The use of PDNs is usually not free but does include guaranteed data transmission speeds.
- PDNs are not a suitable alternative for WIFI connections.
Common Misuses of Public Data Network (PDN)
- PDNs are free, public WIFI hotspots.
