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Message Switching | PDF | Computer Network | Routing
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Message Switching

Message switching is a data transmission method in computer networks that treats entire messages as single units, utilizing a store and forward mechanism at intermediate nodes. It allows for flexible routing without a dedicated path, but can introduce delays and requires complex routing mechanisms. While less common than packet switching, message switching can be advantageous in scenarios where routing flexibility is needed.

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99 views1 page

Message Switching

Message switching is a data transmission method in computer networks that treats entire messages as single units, utilizing a store and forward mechanism at intermediate nodes. It allows for flexible routing without a dedicated path, but can introduce delays and requires complex routing mechanisms. While less common than packet switching, message switching can be advantageous in scenarios where routing flexibility is needed.

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tech4fresherss
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Message switching is another method used in computer networks for data transmission.

Here's an
explanation of message switching in the context of the network layer:

How Message Switching Works:


1. Data Segmentation: Unlike packet switching, where data is divided into smaller packets,
message switching treats the entire message as a single unit of data. The message is only
broken into smaller segments if it exceeds the capacity of the intermediate nodes.
2. Store and Forward: Each message is sent in its entirety from the source to an intermediate
node, where it is temporarily stored before being forwarded to the next node. This process
continues until the message reaches its destination.
3. Routing: Similar to packet switching, message switching relies on dynamic routing
decisions (dynamic routing adapts to changes automatically). Intermediate nodes (switches
or routers) decide the best path for the message based on current network conditions.

Characteristics of Message Switching:


• No Dedicated Path: Unlike circuit switching, there is no dedicated path between the source
and destination. Each message can take a different route, making the process more flexible.
• Store and Forward: Messages are stored at intermediate nodes, which can lead to delays,
especially if the network is congested. This can result in variable latency.
• Variable Message Size: Messages can be of any length, but larger messages may be broken
down if they exceed the storage capacity of intermediate nodes.

Example:
• Email: Email transmission can be seen as a form of message switching. Each email is sent
as a complete message from the sender's server to various intermediate servers before
reaching the recipient's server.

Advantages and Disadvantages:


• Advantages:
• Flexibility: Messages can take different routes, adapting to network conditions.
• No Need for a Dedicated Path: More efficient use of network resources compared to
circuit switching.
• Disadvantages:
• Delays: Store and forward can introduce delays, especially if nodes are busy or
congested.
• Complexity: Requires more complex routing and storage mechanisms.
Message switching is less common in modern networks, as packet switching offers greater
efficiency and scalability. However, it can still be useful in certain scenarios where the flexibility of
routing entire messages is beneficial.

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