Computer Networks Lab
(231CS5L02)
[Link] RAM [Link];(Ph.D)
Assistant Professor
Computer Science and Engineering
Aditya University
Error Detection Code - Checksum
• Checksum is the error detection method used by upper-layer protocols and is considered
to be more reliable than Longitudinal Redundancy Check (LRC), Vertical Redundancy
Check (VRC), and Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC). This method uses a Checksum
Generator on the sender side and a Checksum Checker on the receiver side.
• On the Sender side, the data is divided into equal subunits of n bit length by the
checksum generator. This bit is generally of 16-bit length. These subunits are then added
together using one's complement method. This sum is of n bits. The resultant bit is then
complemented. This complemented sum which is called checksum is appended to the
end of the original data unit and is then transmitted to the receiver.
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• The Receiver after receiving data + checksum passes it to checksum checker.
Checksum checker divides this data unit into various subunits of equal length and
adds all these subunits.
• These subunits also contain checksum as one of the subunits.
• The resultant bit is then complemented.
• If the complemented result is zero, it means the data is error-free.
• If the result is non-zero it means the data contains an error and Receiver rejects
it.
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Advantages of Checksum
•Error Detection: It helps detect data corruption during transmission or storage, ensuring the data
received is correct.
•Simple and Fast: Easy to implement with quick calculations, making it ideal for real-time applications
like network transfers.
•Less Resources: Requires minimal computing resources, so it doesn’t slow down the system.
Disadvantages of Checksum
•Limited Detection: It may miss certain types of errors, such as bit rearrangements or specific patterns of
corruption.
•No Error Correction: It can only detect errors but cannot fix or recover corrupted data.
•Not Secure: Checksum algorithms are not designed for security and can be easily manipulated by
attackers.
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Thank You
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