Pakettvõrku

Pakettvõrku, often translated as packet network, refers to a type of data communication network that groups data into discrete units called packets. Each packet contains not only a portion of the data to be transmitted but also control information such as the source and destination addresses, packet number, and error-checking codes. This method of data transmission differs from circuit-switched networks, where a dedicated communication path is established for the entire duration of a connection.

In a packet network, packets from multiple users can share the same transmission lines. When a packet arrives at a network node, such as a router, it is temporarily stored (buffered) before being forwarded to the next node along the path to its destination. This store-and-forward mechanism allows for efficient use of network resources as links are not tied up by a single connection. If a link becomes congested, packets may be queued, potentially leading to increased latency.

The fundamental advantage of packet switching is its flexibility and robustness. If a particular route within the network becomes unavailable, packets can be dynamically re-routed through alternative paths. This makes packet networks resilient to failures. Common examples of packet networks include the internet, Ethernet local area networks (LANs), and Frame Relay. The development of packet switching technology was a crucial step in the evolution of modern telecommunications and data networking.