How the internet sends messages: free coding worksheets (ages 8+)

A message is cut into packets that travel by different roads, then put back together.

3 printable setsAnswer key includedHow computers workFree, no sign-up

A message crosses the internet.

How it works

A message, like a picture, is cut into small pieces called packets. Each packet gets a label with a number and the place it is going.

The internet is a huge network of computers joined together. Helper computers called routers send each packet on its way.

Packets do not all take one road. If a road is busy, a router sends packets another way.

Packets can arrive in any order. The other computer uses the numbers to put them back in order, and then shows the whole message.

Arriving in any order, then in order.

How the internet sends messages: coding worksheets (ages 8+)