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Segment

Webopedia Staff
Last Updated May 24, 2021 7:54 am
(1) In networks, a section of a network that is bounded by bridges, routers or switches. Dividing an Ethernet into multiple segments is one of the most common ways of increasing available bandwidth on the LAN. If segmented correctly, most network traffic will remain within a single segment, enjoying the full 10 Mbps bandwidth. Hubs and switches are used to connect each segment to the rest of the LAN.

(2) In virtual memory systems, a variable-sized portion of data that is swapped in and out of main memory. Contrast with page.

(3) In graphics, a piece of a polyline, which is a fixed-sized portion of data.