How is a packet defined in the context of networking?

In networking, a packet is best defined as a formatted unit of data carried by a packet-switched network. This means that it is a discrete chunk of information that has been organized in a specific way to facilitate its transmission over a network. Each packet typically contains not only the data being sent but also headers that include routing information, error correction codes, and other necessary metadata that helps the network devices determine where to send the packet and how to process it during transit.

Understanding this concept is crucial, as packet-switched networks break down large files into manageable pieces, allowing for more efficient use of network resources and enabling multiple communications to take place simultaneously. Each packet can take different paths through the network, making the system more resilient and efficient compared to older methods like circuit-switched networks which require a dedicated connection for the entirety of the communication.