5.3.4

Packet Switching

Test yourself

What's in a Packet?

When data is split into packets, it is bundled with extra information which tries to make sure that it will reach its destination safely.

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Payload

  • The payload of a packet is the actual data that was intended to be sent.
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  • A header is also attached to the packet.
  • A header includes useful information such as:
    • The intended recipient's IP address.
    • The sender's IP address.
    • The sequence number (so we can re-arrange the packets into the correct order at the other end).
    • A checksum (to make sure the data was sent correctly).

Jump to other topics

1Problem Solving

2Programming

3Data

4Computers

5Communication & The Internet

6The Bigger Picture

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