What happens if a network reaches saturation?

When a network reaches saturation, it means that the capacity of the network has been fully utilized, and it can no longer accommodate additional data traffic effectively. In this scenario, as new packets arrive while the network is already at maximum capacity, the network devices, like routers and switches, may not be able to process these incoming packets promptly. Consequently, to manage this excess load, some packets may be discarded or dropped entirely.

Packet dropping is a common issue during saturation because the network queues for processing can become overly congested, leading to data loss. This not only affects the immediate data transmission but can also lead to retransmissions from the sending end, increasing overall network traffic. This phenomenon can cause delays and negatively impact the quality of service for all users on the network. Overall, packet dropping is one of the most significant side effects of network saturation, making it a crucial aspect to understand in networking and data communication scenarios.