On Sat, 9 Jan 1999, Max Eskin wrote:
Wired (no, I don't usually read it) reports that
hackers were intending to
disable Iraqui computer networks, which were supposedly accessible by
dialup, and using a 'vintage' protocol called X.25. Could someone tell me
what sort of protocol this is and what machines it's likely to involve?
X.25 is a protocol that defines both the hardware and software layers.
Its a packet-switched protocol for transmitting packets of data across
mainly dedicated data circuits. Its a very old protocol (70's vintage)
but is still in use today in many telco related applications. The telco's
current SS7 (Signalling System 7) protocol, which is used to transmit
signaling information bewteen switches, is based on X.25.
Over an X.25 circuit, multiple Private Virtual Channels (or PVCs) can be
created to effectively multiplex several data streams onto one circuit.
The protocol is somewhat complex, and includes error control and a
"sliding-window" feature that basically allows buffering of packets if
congestion arises.
Sellam Alternate e-mail: dastar(a)siconic.com
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