Communication over the Internet relies on packet-switched networks. Here’s why:

1.Packet Switching:

oThe Internet uses a packet-switching approach to transmit data.

oIn this method, data is divided into smaller packets before transmission.

oEach packet contains a portion of the original data along with addressing information.

oThese packets are then sent independently across the network.

oAt the destination, the packets are reassembled to reconstruct the original data.

2.Advantages of Packet Switching:

oEfficiency: Packet switching allows multiple users to share the same network resources efficiently.

oRobustness: If a link or node fails, packets can find alternative routes to reach their destination.

oScalability: The network can handle varying traffic loads without significant reconfiguration.

3.Other Options:

oAn IP Alias: An IP alias is an additional IP address associated with a network interface. It is not a requirement for communication over the Internet.

oA LAN (Local Area Network): A LAN is a local network within a limited geographical area. While LANs are essential for local communication, they are not directly required for Internet communication.

oA circuit-switched network: Circuit-switched networks establish dedicated connections between sender and receiver. The Internet does not use this approach.

oAn analog signal: Analog signals were used in older communication systems (e.g., telephone lines), but the Internet primarily relies on digital signals.

References:

•1ITExamAnswers: 5.4.3 Communications Principles Quiz Answers

•2GCFGlobal.org: Computer Basics - Connecting to the Internet