This key facts covers Quick Reference - Packet Switching within Packet Switching for GCSE Computer Science. Revise Packet Switching in 3.5 Fundamentals of Computer Networks for GCSE Computer Science with 15 exam-style questions and 18 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 11 of 12 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Quick Reference - Packet Switching
What is Packet Switching?
- Method of transmitting data by dividing into small packets
- Each packet travels independently through network
- Packets reassembled at destination
Packet Structure:
- Header: Source/dest IP, packet number, protocol
- Payload: Actual data (500-1500 bytes)
- Trailer: Error checking (checksum)
Advantages:
- Efficient network use, resilient to failures, no dedicated line needed
Disadvantages:
- Packets arrive out of order, variable latency, header overhead
Remember: Packets = small chunks, independent routing, reassembly at destination using packet numbers!
Practice questions for Packet Switching
Which of the following best describes packet switching?
Explain why packets from the same file can travel by different routes through a network. [2 marks]