Final answer:
Bandwidth is the most discussed data transmission characteristic by networking professionals, crucial for ensuring high-quality data transfer and enabling technologies like Internet-based calls.
Step-by-step explanation:
The data transmission characteristic most frequently discussed and analyzed by networking professionals is bandwidth. Bandwidth, measured in bits per second (bps), represents the maximum rate at which data can be transmitted over a network. Networking professionals must ensure not only cheaper, faster, and better-quality data transmission but also address issues like signal loss and crosstalk, particularly in long-distance communications, such as those involving optical fibers.
Modern communications technologies, including cell phone data, television voice, and video images, are often transmitted as digital data. This digital transmission through binary ones and zeros enhances clarity and utilizes computer algorithms for efficient compression. Advancements have led to spin-off technologies like free Internet-based calling and video calling, leveraging the high bandwidth and low loss of optical fibers, culminating in extensive global communication networks.