In data networking, which term is defined as "Signals may flow in either direction, but not simultaneously"?

The term that describes a situation where signals can flow in either direction but not simultaneously is known as half-duplex. In half-duplex communication, one device can send and receive data, but only one of these actions can occur at any one time. This means that if one device is transmitting, the other must wait until that transmission is complete before it can respond or send its own data. This characteristic is commonly seen in walkie-talkies and two-way radios, where users must take turns speaking and listening.

This term is important in understanding different communication methods in networking, particularly when considering the efficiency and potential throughput of data transmission systems.