What is the term used for packets that exceed the maximum transmission unit in size?

The term "Giants" refers to packets that exceed the maximum transmission unit (MTU) size, which is generally set at 1500 bytes for standard Ethernet frames. When packets surpass this limit, they are classified as "Giants." This condition can lead to issues in network performance and communication, as routers and switches may drop these oversized packets instead of processing them. Understanding this is fundamental for network professionals, as managing packet sizes and ensuring they remain within defined limits is crucial for effective network operation.

On the other hand, oversized packets is a more generic term that may not specifically reference the technical definitions used in networking. Fragments are portions of packets that have been broken down to fit within the MTU, aiming for successful transmission. Jumbo frames, while related to the notion of larger packets, specifically refer to standard Ethernet frames that exceed the traditional 1500 bytes but are typically defined and configured purposely in high-performance network environments. Therefore, "Giants" is the precise terminology used to indicate packets that simply do not conform to the maximum allowable size.