SCTE Broadband Premises Installer (BPI) Practice Exam 2026 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

Packet switching is a method used in computer networks that breaks down data into small packets for transmission over a network. Each packet is sent independently and can take different paths to reach the destination, where the packets are then reassembled into the original message. This approach is efficient because it allows the network to dynamically allocate bandwidth and makes better use of available resources by not requiring a dedicated connection.

This method contrasts with circuit switching, which dedicates a certain amount of bandwidth for the entire duration of a call, establishing a permanent connection for that time. By sending data in discrete packets, packet switching optimizes the use of network capacity and improves routing flexibility.

In addition, packet switching can achieve faster data transfer rates since multiple packets from different sources can traverse the network simultaneously, which may not be the case with circuit switching that requires a fixed path and bandwidth.