Point-to-Point and Point-to-Multipoint
P2P, P2MP: Request a Free Audit for your Business
In Wireless communications, Point-to-Multipoint communication (P2MP, PTMP or PMP) is communication which is accomplished via a distinct type of one-to-many connection, providing multiple paths from a single location to multiple locations.
Technologies used for P2MP and P2P links
- Radio
- Microwave
- Free Space Optics
- Millimeter Wave (MMW)
Point to point vs. point to multipoint
It is important to distinguish, between these two communication methods, as these terms are frequently used interchangeably. A point to multipoint connection (also known as P2MP) can also be described as a one-to-many connection. While one node remains the same, it can communicate with multiple locations. While most point to point communication applications are used to communicate both ways, P2MP systems are frequently designed without a return channel for the multiple receives to reply back to the sending node. The most common example of such a system is a radio station, which broadcasts its material to multiple nodes using radio frequencies.
Point to point communication with regards to M2M and IoT
While both M2M and IoT have a lot of features and use-cases in common and are all about creating links that drive data-driven solutions across every industry, they are very different when it comes to the nature of their network connection. An IoT network is made up of multiple IoT enabled devices that send or receive data to or from a central cloud. Meanwhile, M2M is a closed point to point communication network where the same type of devices communicate directly, without data being relayed by a third-party node, such as a central cloud, a gateway.
