Management Information System (MIS) Practice Exam

What occurs in a packet-switching system if only one computer needs to use the network?

1. Data is sent through the packet-switching technology.

2. The system waits for another computer to send data.

3. Data is verified by the central server.

4. Data blocks network traffic and slows the system.

The correct answer is: Data is sent through the packet-switching technology.

In a packet-switching system, regardless of the number of computers utilizing the network at any given time, the data transmission process remains efficient and effective. When only one computer needs to use the network, the data it generates is segmented into packets which are then individually routed through the network. Each packet can take different paths to reach its destination, allowing for dynamic bandwidth usage and minimizing delays. This method is particularly advantageous because it means that the transmission does not need to wait for other users to become active. Packet-switching technology is inherently designed to optimize the flow of data, making it adaptable to both singular and multiple users on the network. Therefore, the transmission occurs seamlessly without interference or increased delay, maintaining high efficiency in data communication. Other options, such as waiting for additional users or involving a central server for verification, do not apply in scenarios where only one computer is engaged in data transmission. Additionally, the notion that data would block network traffic or slow the system is contrary to the principles of packet-switching, which is intended to minimize congestion and maximize throughput.