What is “packet switching” in networking?
a) A method of data transmission where data is broken into packets
b) A tool for encrypting data
c) A device used to monitor network traffic
d) A protocol for assigning IP addresses
Answer:
a) A method of data transmission where data is broken into packets
Explanation:
Packet switching is a method of data transmission where information is broken down into small units called packets. Each packet is transmitted separately and may take different routes to reach its destination, where it is reassembled into the original message.
Packet switching is used in most modern networks, including the internet, because it allows for more efficient use of network resources and reduces the likelihood of congestion compared to traditional circuit-switched networks.
Packet switching enables flexible, dynamic communication across networks, allowing multiple devices to share the same communication channels effectively.