What characteristic defines a packet switched network?

What characteristic defines a packet switched network?

• A. Fixed-size data blocks with strict order
• B. Unlimited size of data blocks with guaranteed delivery
• C. Limited size of data blocks with possible out-of-order delivery
• D. Continuous data flow without segmentation

Answer: (C)

A packet switched network is characterized by the transmission of data in discrete packets which can vary in size but are typically limited. These packets can take different paths through the network, which means they may arrive at their destination out of order. Once they arrive, they are reassembled in the correct order by the receiving device. This allows for efficient use of the network, as multiple packets from different sources can share the same pathways. In this approach, there is no guarantee that packets will arrive in a specific sequence, nor is there a guarantee of delivery, as packets can be lost in transit. This flexibility aids in optimizing bandwidth and reduces latency compared to other methods of transmission, such as circuit switching, where a dedicated communication path is established. The characteristics mentioned in the other choices do not accurately represent how packet switched networks operate. For example, fixed-size data blocks with strict order (the first choice) would indicate a different network model. Unlimited size of data blocks with guaranteed delivery (the second choice) also does not fit, as packet switched networks do not assure delivery. Continuous data flow without segmentation (the last choice) describes a different method of data transmission, like circuit switching, rather than packet switching, which inherently divides data into packets for transmission.

A packet switched network is characterized by the transmission of data in discrete packets which can vary in size but are typically limited. These packets can take different paths through the network, which means they may arrive at their destination out of order. Once they arrive, they are reassembled in the correct order by the receiving device. This allows for efficient use of the network, as multiple packets from different sources can share the same pathways.

In this approach, there is no guarantee that packets will arrive in a specific sequence, nor is there a guarantee of delivery, as packets can be lost in transit. This flexibility aids in optimizing bandwidth and reduces latency compared to other methods of transmission, such as circuit switching, where a dedicated communication path is established.

The characteristics mentioned in the other choices do not accurately represent how packet switched networks operate. For example, fixed-size data blocks with strict order (the first choice) would indicate a different network model. Unlimited size of data blocks with guaranteed delivery (the second choice) also does not fit, as packet switched networks do not assure delivery. Continuous data flow without segmentation (the last choice) describes a different method of data transmission, like circuit switching, rather than packet switching, which inherently divides data into packets for transmission.