On communications and networks

The concept of packet switching in a computer communication network is described, and the packet switching network analysis and design technology that has been developed in connection with the ARPANET experimental data communications network is summarized. Packet switching is basically a form of message switching in which the messages are decomposed into smaller pieces called packets, which make their way through the net in a store-and-forward fashion, so that many packets of the same message may be in transmission simultaneously. The analytical model of an M-channel N-node network is reviewed. The use of radio as a communication medium for data networks is examined, and some of the requirements for a satellite channel for data communications are discussed.