A state of complete network overload; the network equivalent of
{thrash}ing. This may be induced by a {Chernobyl packet}. See also
{broadcast storm}, {kamikaze packet}.
Network meltdown is often a result of network designs that are
optimized for a steady state of moderate load and don't cope well
with the very jagged, bursty usage patterns of the real world. One
amusing instance of this is triggered by the popular and very bloody
shoot-'em-up game Doom on the PC. When used in multiplayer mode over
a network, the game uses broadcast packets to inform other machines
when bullets are fired. This causes problems with weapons like the
chain gun which fire rapidly -- it can blast the network into a
meltdown state just as easily as it shreds opposing monsters.
[glossary]
[Reference(s) to this entry by made by: {ARMM}{broadcast storm}{Chernobyl packet}{meltdown, network}{sorcerer's apprentice mode}]