Collision

A collision is a regular occurrence in Ethernet networks. An Ethernet network uses CSMA/CD (Carrier Sense Multiple Access/Collision Detect as a method of allowing devices to take turns when carrying a signal through a single line. When a device needs to transmit data, it checks the signal level of a line in order to determine if it is already in use. If so, the device waits a few seconds and makes another attempt. If the line isn’t being used, the device has a clear path to make a transmission. On the other hand, two devices are allowed to actually transmit data at the same time in which a collision occurs. Both devices detect the collision and wait a for a random amount of time. The devices then attempt to send that data again until the transmission is successful. The best approach at preventing a collision is to upgrade to a full duplex, switched network environment.