| MESSAGE SWITCHING | PACKET SWITCHING |
| A complete message is passed across a network. | Message is broken into smaller units known as Packets. |
| In this, computer language used is ASCII, baudot, morse. | In packet switching, binary type is used. |
| In message switching there is no limit on block size. | Packet switching places a tight upper limit on block size. |
| Message exist only in one location in the network. | Parts i.e. packets of the message exist in many places in the network. |
| Example: Hop-by-hop Telex forwarding and UUCP(UNIX-to-UNIX Copy Protocol) | Example: Frame Relay, IP, and X. 25 |
| Physical links are allocated dynamically. | Virtual links are made simultaneously. |
