Packet segmentation
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In data communications networks, packet segmentation is the process of dividing a data packet into smaller units for transmission over the network. Packet segmentation happens at layer four of the OSI model; the transport layer.[1] Segmentation may be required when:
- The data packet is larger than the maximum transmission unit supported by the network
- The network is unreliable and it is desirable to divide the information into smaller segments to maximize the probability that each one of them can be delivered correctly to the destination[citation needed]
Protocols that perform packet segmentation at the source usually include a mechanism at the destination to reverse the process and reassemble the original packet from individual segments. This process may include
In a communication system based on a layered
The ITU-T G.hn standard, which provides a way to create a high-speed (up to 1 gigabit/s) local area network using existing home wiring (power lines, phone lines and coaxial cables), is an example of a protocol that employs packet segmentation to increase reliability over noisy media.
See also
References
- ^ "How the TCP/IP Protocols Handle Data Communications - Oracle Solaris Administration: IP Services". docs.oracle.com. Retrieved July 3, 2018.