Switched Networks and its types

In this article we will be discussing about the technique of switching in a computer network, why is it important and how can it affect the network's performance. After the introduction of wide area network where various local networks are interconnected with routers and switches, a new problem arises of the deciding the path to be taken in the network. To solve this problem different techniques of network switching were developed and implemented to better manage the network.

What is network switching in computer networks ?

It is a technique of forwarding the data in the form of packet, message or circuits to the destination through various kinds intermediate nodes and network devices such as switches, routers, exchange systems etc...

There have been majorly three kinds of techniques developed and implemented which are as follows:

1. Message Switched Networks
2. Circuit Switched Networks
3. Packet Switched Networks

Message Switched Networks

This was the earliest kind of switched networks which was also known as store and forward technique. In this method a full message is treated as an independent unit and forwarded further. This entire message was used to be stored in the primary memory or buffer of the intermediate nodes. When the next node is ready to receive then only the message is forwarded.

Advantages:

1. Congestion is reduced and same channel can be used
2. It is independent of the length of the message

Disadvantages: 

1. Not compatible with continuous data streams like voice and video
2. Unsecure and expensive due to large buffer size needed

Circuit Switched Networks

This method was used widely among public networks and telephone lines, it uses a mathematical algorithm to establish a dedicated link for the entire duration of the conversation. 

Advantages: 

1. There is no lag and constant data rate
2. Long and continuous transmission

Disadvantages: 

1. High initial establishment time required
2. Increased bandwidth consumption
3. Not usable by others at the same time

Packet Switched Networks

This is the most popular method used nowadays in almost every network out there, also the network devices are being manufactured with the same standard. In this method the entire message is divided into fixed size units with appropriate headers known as packets. 

These packets are forwarded among the intermediate nodes,  each independently according to the path decided by routing algorithms. The receiver then arranges the packets in order given by the headers of each packet and the adds up into the an entire message.

Advantages: 

1. Efficient use of the network 
2. Memory and dedicated link not required
3. Reduced bandwidth consumption
4. Cheap and used for almost every type of communication

Disadvantages: 

1. Packet loss and mismatch
2. Transmission delay due to routing algorithm execution for each individual packet
3. Routing algorithm execution cost

These were the robust techniques developed in the past and were extensively implemented even in today's generation of computer networks. You can further learn the models and protocol stacks used for communication inside a network. 

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