What is the definition of a broadcast frame?

A broadcast frame is defined as a data packet sent over a network that is addressed to all potential recipients within that network segment. When it is sent, all nodes (devices) connected to the network receive this frame simultaneously, allowing for general communication to all devices rather than a specific one. This form of transmission is crucial in scenarios where information needs to be disseminated widely, such as announcing system changes, sending requests, or finding network services.

In a broadcast context, every device on the network listens for and processes the broadcast frame, which differentiates it from unicast frames (targeted at a single device) and multicast frames (targeted at a specific group of devices). The broadcast address typically employed in local area networks (LANs) is designed to ensure that every connected device can recognize and respond to the broadcast, making it an essential part of network communication protocols.