Question: In an IMS Application Server (AS) dataset with variable length data, what happens when the size of a variable length data field increases?
Option 1: The offset values in the fixed section are adjusted to maintain their original order.
Option 2: The entire variable length section of the dataset must be realigned.
Option 3: The length of the affected field is set to 0, and its offset is updated to match the next field's offset.
Option 4: No changes are required in the dataset structure.
Explanation: When a variable length data field grows in size, maintaining data integrity and correct pointer references (offsets and lengths) is crucial. Realignment of the entire variable length section ensures that all offsets point to the correct locations within the dataset, preventing data corruption or misinterpretation. This is a critical aspect of managing dynamic data in telecom applications like IMS, where consistent and reliable data handling is paramount for service continuity and user experience.