In data communication, what does full duplex mean?

Full duplex refers to a communication system that allows data to be sent and received simultaneously between two devices. This means that both parties can communicate at the same time without having to wait for the other to finish transmitting. This is akin to a phone conversation where both individuals can talk and listen at the same time, which enables a smooth and interactive exchange of information.

In contrast, other options describe different types of data communication. One-way data transmission does not allow for simultaneous sending and receiving, which is characteristic of half-duplex communication. Sending data in blocks pertains to how data is organized for transmission but does not define the simultaneous nature of full duplex. Data compression is a technique used to reduce the size of data for faster transmission but does not relate to the method of communication mode itself. Understanding these distinctions is essential for grasping the fundamentals of data communication protocols and their applications.