Connectionless Networking
Connectionless networking is a communication model in computer networks where data packets are sent independently without establishing a dedicated end-to-end connection beforehand. It operates on a best-effort delivery basis, with each packet containing all necessary addressing information and being routed separately. This contrasts with connection-oriented protocols that require a handshake and session management.
Developers should learn connectionless networking when building applications that prioritize low latency, simplicity, and scalability over guaranteed delivery, such as real-time systems (e.g., VoIP, online gaming) or broadcast/multicast services. It's essential for understanding protocols like UDP (User Datagram Protocol) and implementing lightweight communication where occasional packet loss is acceptable, reducing overhead compared to TCP-based connections.