Packet-switched and circuit-switched networks use two different technologies for sending messages and data from one point to another. In packet-based network, the message gets broken into small data packets and travel around the network with most efficient route. Each packet is sent with header address which tells it where its final destination is. If the packet is fails to arrive the recipient computer sends a message back to asking for the missing packet. Packet switching network is more secure and has higher bandwidth. It doesn’t affected by line failure because each packet may go a different route from the others.
Mix of both would be so much better because the main advantage of circuit switching is that it is highly reliable for its purpose like voice communication. Also that once the circuit is set up, the communication is fast and generally error free.
AT&T also called Bell System controlled almost all telecommunication in the US. In the AT&T Deregulation of 1984, because of the monopoly control the company had over phone service, the company was broken-up and the local Bell phone companies were divvied up among seven. AmeriTech, Bell Atlantic, Bell South, NYNEX, Pacific Telesis, Southwestern Bell and US West. It deployed a national telecom network.
I agree with both of you. Deregulation did benefit AT&T as well. By year 2000, AT&T’s revenues actually increased by as much as 20%. Also the wireless industry has gone through 1G and 2G phases of its history and new innovations been made. As we know today we have LTE networks.