Switching in Computer Networks-
| The process of moving the data packets towards their destination by forwarding them from one port to the other port is called as switching. |
Switching Techniques-
Various switching techniques are-
- Circuit Switching
- Message Switching
- Packet Switching
In this article, we will discuss about Message Switching.
Message Switching-
In message switching,
- There exists no dedicated path to transfer data.
- The entire message is treated as a single data unit.
- The message is then forwarded from hop to hop.
- Store and Forward is an important characteristic of message switching.
- The message carries a header that contains the full information about the destination.
- When any intermediate switch receives the message, it stores the entire message.
- The message is stored until sufficient resources become available to transfer it to the next switch.
- When resources become available, the switch forwards the message to the next switch.
Advantages-
Point-01:
- It improves the channel efficiency over Circuit Switched Network.
- In circuit switched network, the channel is blocked for two ends only.
- But here, more devices can share the channel.
Point-02:
- It is helpful in reducing traffic congestion.
- The message may be temporarily stored in the route and then forwarded whenever required.
Point-03:
- It is helpful in setting the message priorities due to store and forward technique.
Disadvantages-
Point-01:
- It requires enough storage at every switch to accommodate the entire message during the transmission.
Point-02:
- It is extremely slow due to store and forward technique.
- Also, the message has to wait until sufficient resources become available to transfer it to the next switch.
| Message switching is replaced by Packet switching. |
To gain better understanding about Message Switching,
Next Article- Packet Switching
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