What is IPX (Internetwork Packet Exchange)? | How Does It Work?

Novell Netware computers and servers usually use something called IPX protocol. This way of talking is like a particular language for Novell networks. Also, it follows a rule that helps send data between networks. Still, it only promises some things will always work perfectly.

What is IPX Protocol?

IPX stands for Internetwork Packet Exchange. It’s a protocol that doesn’t need packet or link connections. It works with another protocol called SPX (Sequenced Packet eXchange) for sending data.

Also, the Novell Network Protocol (IPX/SPX) uses the Xerox IDP (Internetwork Datagram Packet) method.

This system lets DOS, Windows, or OS/2 computer applications connect to NetWare network drives. This way, they can talk to other PCs, servers, or devices on the network.

Simply put, the IPX protocol sends data remotely without a direct link. However, the perfect operation is only guaranteed if it is done. Yet, it promptly confirms successful data transmission.

What Does IPX Do?

The big difference between an Intranet network and other private networks is the TCP/IP way of talking. Sharing stuff on this network is like sending small pieces of a puzzle that all reach the right place.

TCP splits the data into packets and groups the package when it receives it again. In this case, the IP manages the routing process for the data and ensures that it goes to the precise destination.

Some big companies have tricky networks with different rules, like TCP/IP or NetWare. Therefore, this lets them move information between their computers using TCP/IP or PipeIP.

NetWare networks use a special rule called IPX to send info. But if they get a unique numeral called an IP address from a particular TCP/IP server, they must figure out what to do with it.

What is the Working Logic?

As TCP creates each packet, it divides the data into packets, calculates them, and adds a control number. Thus, the box may vary in byte values, i.e., the exact amount of data.

Therefore, each packet is associated with separate IP containers with its control number. In this case, the data includes where to go on the Intranet or online.

The packets then travel between other networks, thanks to routers. These devices inspect IP containers. It then determines the most efficient way to send each package to its destination. Also, it sends or receives them by different routes.

If the router sees the address within the local web, it sends the packet directly to its destination. Yet, it redirects the package to another target if it’s in a separate area.

When packets reach their destination, TCP calculates the check number for each and compares it with the digit sent in the package. In this case, if the control numerals do not match, the data packet is assumed to be corrupt.

Then, the package is dropped, and the original packet is requested to be sent again. In this data stream, TCP controls all incoming and outgoing packets.

How Does IPX Work?

In an IPX network, a PC requests an Internet connection. It sends an info query to an Intranet browser, which directs it.

In NetWare networks, the NetWare operating system maintains network traffic and management. However, it uses IPX to route packets.

Also, it does not provide Internet access or carry various information. Therefore, workstations and servers in a NetWare network need the IPX protocol to use the web.

For workstations on a Novell network to access the Internet or Intranet, they must use TCP/IP. To do this, you must install a stack on each computer to allow login.

This requires setting up IPX and TCP/IP stack on each PC. As a result, it enables web and Ethernet network access.

A CSU/DSU (Channel Service Unit-Data Service Unit) connects the Intranet to the ISP.

The requested data is between CSU/DSU and the router. Subsequently, the system forwards it to the requesting computer for access. However, the router requests the host PC if the info is on the in-house network. It then returns data to the requester as needed.

As a result, devices on NetWare/IP networks access the Internet. This eliminates memory issues. However, it doesn’t need to run IPX and TCP/IP protocols.

What is the Packet Structure of the Internetwork Packet Exchange Protocol?

IPX uses protocols like SPX or NetBios. It is immediately confirmed and is connectionless. Still, it performs better than connection-based systems.

It uses 12-byte addressing to send data packets effectively. This scheme optimizes packet delivery like the below:

1. Source and Destination Networks: Each network address must be unique.
2. Source and Destination Nodes: Indicates network nodes within workgroups.
3. Source and Destination Sockets: Allows multiple high-level protocols to use IPX services simultaneously.

As a result, it communicates with its peers in accordance with the client protocol. However, the number of sockets in the remote peer application needs to be known to do that.