Data can be sent over networks using either circuit switching or packet switching.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (May/June 2022). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. [8] Circuit switching max four marks Any two from • a dedicated circuit • circuit is established before transmission starts // circuit is released after transmission ends • data is transferred using the whole bandwidth • all data is transferred over the same route Two from • Advantage - data /frames arrive in order and do not need to be reassembled • Disadvantage – nobody else can use the same circuit even if it is idle //less secure as only one route used Packet switching max four marks Any two from • data is split into packets • each packet is given its own route • the routing for a packet depends on the congestion • packets may not arrive in the order sent Two from • Advantage - packets can be rerouted if there are problems// more secure as harder to intercept messages • Disadvantage - time taken to reassemble packets at the destination