circuit switching

(′sər·kət ′swich·iŋ)

(communications) The method of providing communication service through a switching facility, either from local users or from other switching facilities. A method of transmitting messages through a communications network in which a path from the sender to the receiver of fixed bandwidth or speed is set up for the entire duration of a communication or call.

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A networking technology that provides a temporary, but dedicated, connection between two stations no matter how many switching devices the data are routed through. Circuit switching was originally developed for the analog-based telephone system in order to guarantee steady, consistent service for two people engaged in a phone conversation. Analog circuit switching (FDM) has given way to digital circuit switching (TDM), and the digital counterpart still maintains the connection until broken (one side hangs up). This means bandwidth is continuously reserved and "silence is transmitted" just the same as digital audio. See connection oriented. Contrast with packet switching and message switch.

Circuit Switched Vs. Packet Switched

Circuit switching can be analog or digital, but it is giving way to the packet-based IP technology as a result of the Internet.

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Circuit Switching