(Internetwork Packet Exchange) A Novell communication protocol that sends data packets to requested destinations (such as workstations or servers).
IPX allows packet addressing within a single network, or in an internetwork environment. (That is, two or more networks connected by a router, where each network has a unique IPX external network number.)
Through IPX, incoming data packets are directed to the proper area within the operating system of the workstation or NetWare server.
IPX provides services to help other network-aware programs in their network data-transmission process.
The IPXODI.COM file then uses the services of a LAN driver routine to control the station's network board for data delivery.
Thus, IPX allows data packets to be sent and received through physically different networks and workstations.
See also Communication protocols ; Internetwork ; IPXODI ; LAN driver; Open Data-Link Interface.