Circuit switching is a method used in telecommunication networks where a dedicated physical path, or circuit, is established and maintained between two nodes for the duration of a connection. This approach is known as connection-oriented, requiring the circuit to be set up before data transfer can occur. Traditional telephone networks, including the Plain Old Telephone System (POTS) and early GSM networks, use circuit switching. However, newer technologies like GPRS introduced packet switching in GSM networks, allowing for more efficient data transmission. Circuit switching ensures consistent timing and low delay for voice communication.