Name: Muhammad Taha

Roll No: SE-20091

Course: CCN(CS-351)

Report on HDLC and PPP Protocols

Abstract
The High-Level Data Link Control (HDLC) and Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP) are foundational data
link layer protocols that have played pivotal roles in data communication networks for decades.
This research report delves into the core principles, characteristics, and applications of HDLC and
PPP protocols, providing an in-depth exploration of their respective frame structures, modes of
operation, and IEEE standards. Additionally, the report conducts a thorough comparative
analysis, highlighting the key distinctions between HDLC and PPP, including their advantages,
disadvantages, and diverse use cases.

1 Introduction
In the dynamic arena of data communication networks, ensuring the efficient and dependable
transmission of data is a matter of paramount concern. Within this context, two essential
protocols, High-Level Data Link Control (HDLC) and Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP), have emerged
as pivotal components in facilitating the seamless exchange of data. This introductory section
offers a concise overview of the historical context, the objectives, and the scope of the present
research report, emphasizing the enduring significance of HDLC and PPP within the domain of
networking.

1.1 Background
High-Level Data Link Control (HDLC) is a data link layer protocol developed by the International
Organization for Standardization (ISO) in the 1970s. The High-Level Data Link Control (HDLC)
protocol corresponds to a layer 2 protocol within the OSI reference model (G. BOCHMANN,
1978) . It serves as a foundation for various other data link protocols and is widely used in both
synchronous and asynchronous communication. Its widespread adoption, driven by
standardized implementations, attests to its pivotal.
1.2 Objectives

The primary objectives of this research report are as follows:

 To comprehensively examine the principles, characteristics, and operational modes of the High-
Level Data Link Control (HDLC) protocol.
 To provide a thorough exploration of the Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP), elucidating its frame
structure, phases, and authentication methods.
 To conduct a comparative analysis between HDLC and PPP, highlighting their key differences,
advantages, disadvantages, and diverse use cases.
 To underscore the ongoing significance of HDLC and PPP in modern networking by investigating
their roles in Wide Area Networks (WANs), integration with Internet Protocols, and evolving
security considerations.
 To offer practical insights through real-world case studies that demonstrate the implementation
and implications of HDLC and PPP in network environments.
 To discuss emerging data link layer protocols, assess the influence of 5G and the Internet of
Things (IoT) on HDLC and PPP, and explore potential security enhancements for these protocols.

1.3 Scope

The scope of this research report encompasses a comprehensive exploration of HDLC and PPP
protocols, their underlying mechanisms, and their relevance in contemporary network
infrastructures. It spans the following areas:

 In-depth analysis of HDLC, including its frame structure, modes of operation, and IEEE
standards compliance.
 Thorough examination of PPP, encompassing its frame structure, connection phases, and
authentication methods.
 A detailed comparative study elucidating the distinctions between HDLC and PPP, along with
their respective strengths and limitations.
 Exploration of the practical applications of HDLC and PPP in real-world network scenarios
through case studies.
 Discussion of future trends, including emerging data link layer protocols, the impact of 5G
and IoT, and potential security enhancements for HDLC and PPP.
 The report aims to provide a holistic understanding of these protocols, catering to both
academic and practical interests within the field of networking.

2 High-Level Data Link Control (HDLC)

2.1 Introduction

High-Level Data Link Control (HDLC) protocol has played a pivotal role in the field of data
 communication for decades. Originally developed by the International Organization for
Standardization (ISO), HDLC serves as a fundamental building block for numerous data link
layer protocols, including those used in both wired and wireless networks. In this research
report, we delve into the fundamental principles, key features, and various applications of
HDLC, shedding light on its enduring significance in the realm of data communication.
Through this exploration, we aim to provide a concise understanding of HDLC's operation and
its relevance in modern network infrastructures.

2.2 Functionality
HDLC is primarily designed for point-to-point and multi-point communication over various
physical media, including serial links, leased lines, and radio links. Its key functionalities include:

 Frame Structure: HDLC frames consist of three main parts: the header, information field, and trailer.
The header contains control information, the information field holds the data to be transmitted, and
thetrailer contains error-checking information.

 Flow Control: HDLC supports flow control mechanisms, including the acknowledgment of received
frames and the management of data transmission rates, ensuring efficient and reliable communication.

 Error Detection and Correction: It employs error-checking mechanisms like Frame Check Sequence
(FCS) to detect and potentially correct errors in transmitted data.

 Multiple Modes: HDLC can operate in different modes, such as normal response mode (NRM),
asynchronous balanced mode (ABM), and asynchronous response mode (ARM), to suit various
networkingscenarios.

 Addressing: HDLC frames can include addressing information, allowing for multiple devices to share a
single communication link.
2.3 Frame Structure

HDLC frames consist of the following components:

 Flag: Delimits the start and end of the frame (01111110).

 Address: Identifies the destination or source device (1 to 8 bits).

 Control: Specifies the frame type and control information (8 bits).

 Data: Carries the information to be transmitted (variable length).

 FCS: Contains the Frame Check Sequence for error checking (16 or 32 bits).

Fig.1
(madhuri, 2022)
3 Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP)

3.1 History
The Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP) is a data link layer protocol designed for establishing direct
connections between two devices, typically used in dial-up and broadband connections. The Point-to-
Point Protocol (PPP) [3] provides a standard method of encapsulating Network Layer protocol
information over point-to-point links. It was developed in the early 1990s and is documented in RFC
1661.

3.2 Functionality
PPP is versatile and widely used in various networking scenarios, including connecting remote users to the
internet through Internet Service Providers (ISPs). Its key functionalities include:

1. Authentication: PPP supports various authentication methods, including Password Authentication

Protocol (PAP) and Challenge Handshake Authentication Protocol (CHAP), ensuring secure connections.

2. Error Detection and Correction: Similar to HDLC, PPP uses error-checking mechanisms to detect
and correct errors in transmitted data.

3. Compression: PPP offers data compression techniques, such as Van Jacobson TCP/IP Header
Compression, to optimize bandwidth usage.

4. Multilink: PPP can aggregate multiple physical links into a single logical link, increasing bandwidth and
reliability.
3.3 Frame Structure
PPP frames are relatively simple and consist of the following components:

 Flag: Marks the start and end of the frame (01111110).

 Address: Not used and set to 11111111.

 Control: Contains control information (typically 00000011).

 Protocol: Identifies the network layer protocol being encapsulated (e.g., IP, IPv6).

 Information: Carries the payload data (variable length).

 FCS: Includes error-checking information (16 or 32 bits).

Fig.2
(madhurihammad, n.d.)
4 Comparison of HDLC and PPP

High-Level Data Link Control (HDLC) and the Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP) are two significant
data link layer protocols, each with its own distinct characteristics. HDLC, known for its
adaptability and versatility, can operate in various network environments and modes, making it
suitable for a wide range of scenarios. Conversely, PPP is valued for its simplicity and efficiency,
particularly in point-to-point connections where direct links are established. While HDLC's
flexibility can sometimes introduce complexity, PPP's straightforward frame structure and
authentication methods make it an excellent choice for streamlined communication in specific
contexts. The choice between these protocols largely depends on the specific network
requirements and configurations.

4.1 Key Differences

Basic and differences HDLC PPP

Bit-oriented synchronous Byte-oriented non-

Definition
information interface concurrent information
convention. connects convention.

They can carry data from PPP have the ability to

different network layer encapsulate different
Encapsulation
protocols within their protocols.
frames

It is older protocol than It is newer protocol with

Authentication ppp so it doesn’t provide authentication.
any authentication.

Addressing Addressing is static Addressing is dyamic

Cost It is more costier than ppp. It is less costier than hdlc.

Table (Pranavnath, 2023) (Rawat, 2022)

4.2 Use cases and application

Understanding where and how High-Level Data Link Control (HDLC) and the Point-to-Point Protocol
(PPP) are applied is crucial to appreciating their significance in modern networking. These protocols
find their roles in a variety of scenarios and applications, each capitalizing on their unique strengths.

4.2.1 HDLC use cases

 Wide Area Networks (WANs): HDLC shines in wide area networks, where reliability and
compatibility are paramount. Its adaptability to different modes makes it suitable for various
WAN topologies, ensuring data is transmitted securely over long distances.

 Legacy Systems: HDLC continues to be a go-to choice for legacy systems and environments
where established standards are critical. Its long-standing presence in the networking world
makes it a reliable choice for older systems that have not yet transitioned to newer protocols.

4.2.2 PPP use cases

 Internet Connections: PPP is widely used in connecting to the internet via Internet Service
Providers (ISPs). Its straightforward and efficient nature makes it ideal for establishing internet
connections, particularly in scenarios where a direct link exists between the user's device and
the ISP.

 Dial up connections: PPP's simplicity makes it suitable for dial-up connections, which were
prevalent in the earlier days of the internet. Even though broadband has largely replaced dial-
up, PPP remains relevant in some remote or backup connectivity scenarios (G. BOCHMANN,
1978)

5 Future Trends and Development

As technology continually advances, data link layer protocols, such as HDLC and PPP, are
expected to undergo significant transformations to align with the demands of contemporary
networking environments. Several notable trends and developments are on the horizon:

5.1 Integration with 5G and IoT:

The convergence of data link layer protocols with the expanding realms of 5G networks and
the Internet of Things (IoT) is gaining significance. A recent report by (Ericsson, (2021)
)underscores the growing necessity for data link layer protocols capable of efficiently
managing the diverse data types and low-latency requirements of these evolving
technologies. Adaptations of protocols like HDLC and PPP may be required to ensure seamless
connectivity in this context.
5.2 Elevated Security Measures:
With the escalating complexity of cybersecurity threats, data link layer protocols are poised
for enhancements in security features. A study conducted by (cisco, 2020)underscores the
importance of securing communications at the data link layer, particularly in critical
infrastructure and enterprise networks. Future developments may focus on incorporating
elements like encryption, authentication, and intrusion detection within these protocols.

5.3 IoT Energy Efficiency:

In the context of IoT, energy efficiency is paramount, especially for devices relying on battery
power. Protocols like PPP may undergo optimization to minimize energy consumption while
preserving reliable communication. Ongoing research in this sphere is exemplified by
academic studies such as the work by (Li, 2020) on "Energy-Efficient IoT Communications.

6 Conclusion
In summary, it's important to recognize that HDLC and PPP are two essential data link layer
protocols, each possessing unique characteristics and purposes. While HDLC, initially
established by ISO, lays the groundwork for numerous data link protocols, making it adaptable
to various communication situations, PPP, developed in the early 1990s, is primarily employed
for creating point-to-point connections, especially in the realm of internet connectivity.
Proficiency in these protocols is crucial for network professionals and administrators as it
enables them to configure and uphold efficient and secure data link connections.

7 References

 cisco, 2020. Ciso Benchmark Study.

 Ericsson, (2021) . Mobility Report.
 G. BOCHMANN, 1978. Finite state description of communication protocols.
 Li, X. Z. B. &. J. D., 2020. Energy-Efficient IoT Communications: From Device Layer to Network Layer.
IEEE Internet of Things Journal,, pp. 4642-4654.
 madhuri, 2022. Basic Frame Structure of HDLC.
 madhurihammad, n.d. basic structure of ppp.
 Pranavnath, 2023. Difference between HDLC and PPP. 18 July.
 Rawat, R., 2022. Difference between HDLC and PPP protocol in tabular form.
 W. Simpson, E., 1994. The Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP). p. 51.