Difference between Virtual Path and Virtual Channel
Aspect |
Virtual Path |
Virtual Channel |
---|---|---|
Implementation |
Virtual Paths are implemented at the network layer (for example IP) and are capable of creating or spanning multiple physical links on the network. |
Virtual Channels are implemented at the transport layer (e.g., TCP) and are related to a specific network and its connection on the same network. |
Reliability |
Virtual Paths are used for data routing during network failures, but does not guarantees the delivery of data. |
Virtual Channels ensure to provide effective and reliable data transmission by using the error detection and correction mechanisms such as checksums and retransmission. |
Protocols |
Virtual path are used by the protocols such as IP (Internet Protocol) and MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching). |
Virtual Channels are used by the protocols such as TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) and SCTP (Stream Control Transmission Protocol). |
What is Virtual Channel?
Virtual channels are also known as the virtual path or virtual circuit. A virtual channel is the logical connection created between any two nodes in a network device and is used for data transmission.