Which technology was developed by Paul Baran to enhance Internet reliability?

Packet switching is the correct answer because it was indeed developed by Paul Baran as a method to enhance the reliability of data transmission over networks, which ultimately contributed to the foundations of the Internet. In packet switching, data is broken down into smaller packets that are transmitted independently and can take different paths to reach the destination. This method increases the robustness of the network because even if one path fails or is congested, packets can be rerouted through alternative paths without disrupting the overall communication.

The significance of packet switching lies in its ability to make effective use of the available bandwidth and maintain communication even during network failures. By allowing data to be sent in a non-sequential manner and reassembled correctly at the destination, packet switching provides a resilient and efficient framework for digital communication, distinguishing it from traditional circuit switching, which establishes a fixed path for the entire duration of a communication session.

This flexibility and fault tolerance are essential features of modern networking, making packet switching a pivotal innovation in creating a reliable and scalable Internet infrastructure.