Frame Relay
Frame Relay is a packet-switching network protocol designed for cost-efficient data transmission over wide area networks (WANs). It operates at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model, using virtual circuits to transmit data frames between devices. It was widely used in the 1990s and early 2000s for connecting local area networks (LANs) and providing internet access, but has largely been superseded by newer technologies.
Developers should learn about Frame Relay primarily for historical context and legacy system maintenance, as it was a foundational technology in early WAN deployments. It is relevant when working with older network infrastructures, studying networking evolution, or in academic settings to understand packet-switching principles. However, for modern applications, it is not recommended for new projects due to its obsolescence.