Which of the following is a key feature of packet switching?

A key feature of packet switching is that messages are divided into smaller packets, which can independently take various paths through a network to reach their destination. This is a fundamental aspect of how packet-switched networks operate, allowing for more efficient use of network resources and improved reliability. The ability for packets to navigate different routes helps to optimize the flow of data, balancing loads across the network and avoiding congestion by rerouting packets if parts of the network become overloaded or fail.

This approach also facilitates greater resilience, as the loss of a single link does not impact the overall delivery of a message; the remaining packets can still find their way to the destination. This method contrasts with circuit switching, where a dedicated communication path is established for the duration of a transmission, limiting flexibility and efficiency.

In contrast, other options describe characteristics or methodologies not associated with packet switching, making them less applicable. For instance, delivering complete messages over a single line or relying on a central server does not reflect the decentralized and flexible nature of packet-switched networks. Additionally, the size of packets is typically optimized for network performance rather than being larger for faster delivery. Thus, the division of messages into packets that can take different paths is indeed the hallmark of packet switching.