UDPsegmenter

UDPsegmenter is a software component designed to convert a continuous data stream into a sequence of UDP datagrams suitable for transmission over UDP networks. It focuses on application-level segmentation to avoid IP layer fragmentation and to provide predictable datagram boundaries for reassembly on the receiver side.

It typically offers configurable maximum payload size, pacing, and optional per-datagram headers that carry sequence numbers, fragment identifiers, and timing metadata. The component can operate as a library, a service, or part of a testing tool, with support for IPv4 and IPv6 and both UDP clients and servers.

Data flows: incoming data is buffered, the segmenter computes the next datagram size so that the UDP payload does not exceed the configured limit, optionally prepends a small header, and sends the datagram via a UDP socket. A companion receiver collects datagrams, uses the header to reassemble into the original stream, and reports losses or gaps if timeouts occur. In addition, some implementations expose PMTUD-aware sizing or allow manual MTU settings to minimize IP fragmentation.

Common use cases include real-time multimedia streaming, telemetry and sensor networks, and load-testing network paths. It is not a substitute for reliable transport; applications relying on complete delivery should layer their own acknowledgments and retransmission strategies or use a different protocol.

Limitations and considerations: UDP is inherently unreliable and unordered; segmentation at the application layer adds overhead and potential reassembly complexity. There is a risk of traffic amplification and firewall or rate-limiting issues; security concerns include potential for spoofing or denial-of-service if not protected.