Packet Switching

Definition

Packet switching is a method of transmitting data in which messages are divided into small packets, sent independently over the network, and then reassembled at the destination. It allows for efficient use of network resources and enables reliable transmission.

Analogy

Imagine you have a large pizza that needs to be delivered to different people in different locations. Instead of sending the whole pizza to each person individually, you divide it into smaller slices (packets) and send them separately. Once all the slices reach their destinations, they are put back together to form the complete pizza.

Related terms

Routing: The process of determining the best path for packets to travel from source to destination in a network.

TCP/IP: A set of protocols used for communication between devices on the internet.

Latency: The time delay between when data is sent and when it is received, often caused by network congestion or distance.