Frame relay is a packet-switching network that sends
variable-length packets
over LANs or WANs. Variable length packets, or frames, are data
packets that contain additional addressing and error handling
information necessary for delivery.
Communication occurs over a network that provides a permanent
and virtual data path between each station. This type of network
uses wide area digital or fiber-optic links and gives you quick
access to data transfer that you pay for only as you need it.
Packet switching is a method used to send data over a WAN by
dividing a large package of data into smaller pieces (packets).
These pieces are sent through a packet switch, which sends the
individual packets across the WAN using the best route currently
available. Although these packets may travel along different
paths, the receiving computer can reassemble the pieces into the
original data frame.
However, you could have a permanent virtual circuit (PVC)
established, which would use the same path for all of the
packets. This allows for a faster transmission than by normal
frame relay networks and eliminates the need for packet
disassembly and reassembly.
Access Method
Frame relay uses the point-to-point access method. This access
method transfers variable-sized packets from one computer
directly to another, instead of between several computers and
peripherals.
Transfer Speed
Frame relay allows for data transfer that is as fast as the
provider can supply over digital leased lines.
