(4.2) Packet Switching Technology

Packing Switching is a process where inormation is broken down into small "chunks" which are known as data packets. The packets are then transfered in the packets from computer to computer through the internet.

The above image reprsents computers A and B using packet switching to send messages to computers C and D.

Today, the amount of integration with the internet calls for a mean for communication between computers. A Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol is what is used in order to share data and information between computers. TCP breaks down data into data packets or "chunks" and manages the transfer of these packets from computer to computer. IP decides the order that data packets are put into and which router should be sent the data packets. A router is a device that is used to connect two or more different networks. Data Packets that use IP specifications are called IP Datagrams. Every Datagram is routed to specific addresses called an IP Adress. An IP Adress is an individual Adress for a router, which allows for transmission IP to find it, and not the wrong router.