6.4.1 Sending a message over a network as a series of packets
The routers in a packet-switched network are permanently connected via high-speed lines. This may seem expensive at first sight, but it makes sense economically (and technically) if the network is heavily used, i.e. if it is effectively flooded with packets.
Here is an animation that looks at the different types of switching, and the comparative advantages and disadvantages of each.
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"An important scientific innovation rarely makes its way by gradually winning over and converting its opponents. What does happen is that its opponents gradually die out, and that the growing generation is familiarized with the ideas from the beginning."
(Max Planck)
6.4 Circuit switching (phones) versus packet switching (internet)