Short for
Sequenced Packet Exchange, a transport layer
protocol (layer 4 of the
OSI Model) used in
Novell Netware networks. The SPX layer sits on top of the
IPX layer (layer 3) and provides connection-oriented services between two nodes on the network. SPX is used primarily by
client/server applications.
Whereas the IPX protocol is similar to IP, SPX is similar to TCP. Together, therefore, IPX/SPX provides connection services similar to TCP/IP.