The packet was designed to make networks efficient and share

The packet was designed to make networks efficient and shareable, but there is a tradeoff to chopping up messages and sending them across the Internet. Consider the following: Explain what packet loss is and why it happens. What factors contribute to packet loss? Is packet loss much of an issue today? Do certain protocols handle it better? What can providers do to minimize it?

Solution

Explain what packet loss is and why it happens.

Packet loss is the lack of the transmission of one or more transmitted packets to arrive at their destination from the source. It happens due to internet connection problem, network overloading, errors, and glitches.

What factors contribute to packet loss?

These are the following factors that contribute to packet loss:

1. Network congestion

2. Inadequate signal strength at the destination

3. Natural or human made interference,

4. Hardware failure

5. Software corruption

Is packet loss much of an issue today?

Not too much issue of packet loss, it is an issue today but it can be solve easily.

Do certain protocols handle it better?

The Transmission Control Protocol can detect the packet loss and performs resending to ensure reliable messaging. TCP protocol can be used to remove congestion and decrease the throughput of the connection.

What can providers do to minimize it?

Link Congestion: There are two ways to decrease the effect of packet loss due to Link congestion:

Device Performance: Change the old hardware with a new hardware or device that can manage maximum throughput.

Software problems on a network device: To minimize the packet loss update the software of the affected devices.

Hardware or Cabling problem: Replace the faulty hardware or cable with the new one. This is the most common reason for the packet loss on the network.