network meltdown

network meltdown n.  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 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.