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What is Store and Forward?
Store and Forward is a fundamental concept used in network communication protocols. It is a technique that involves receiving and storing data before forwarding it to the intended destination. In simple terms, the data is first accumulated or stored at an intermediary device or server before it is transmitted further.
How does Store and Forward work?
When a message or data packet is sent from a source device to a destination in a network, it passes through multiple intermediary devices such as routers or switches. In a Store and Forward mechanism, each intermediary device receives the complete data packet, verifies its integrity, and stores it temporarily in a buffer.
The intermediary device then proceeds to analyze the data packet, makes decisions based on routing or filtering rules, and determines the next hop or destination. The stored data packet is then forwarded to the next intermediary device or the final destination.
The process of storing and forwarding continues until the data packet reaches its intended destination. Each intermediary device along the way follows the same procedure, allowing for reliable and error-free transmission of data.
Benefits of Store and Forward
1. Error detection and correction: By storing the entire data packet, intermediary devices can perform integrity checks and apply error correction mechanisms before forwarding. This helps in ensuring that the data reaches the destination without errors.
2. Flexibility and compatibility: Store and Forward allows different devices in a network to operate at varying speeds or have different protocols. By temporarily holding the data at intermediary devices, compatibility issues can be resolved before forwarding.
3. Congestion control: Storing data packets at each intermediary device helps in managing network congestion. The devices can analyze the network load and forward the data at an appropriate pace, preventing data loss and improving overall network performance.
4. Reliable delivery: Since the data is stored before forwarding, if the destination is temporarily unavailable or disconnected, the data can still be transmitted once the connection is restored. This ensures reliable delivery of the data in scenarios where the network may encounter disruptions.
In conclusion, Store and Forward is a mechanism used in network communication that involves receiving and temporarily storing data before forwarding it to the intended destination. It offers benefits such as error detection, compatibility, congestion control, and reliable data delivery, contributing to the smooth operation of network systems.
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