In computer networking, s]] refer to the hierarchical arrangement of protocols and functions that facilitate the transmission of data across networks. Network Stacks are organized into multiple , each responsible for specific tasks. The is the second layer in the network stack that deals with the transmission of over a physical medium. It ensures reliable data transfer between directly connected devices.
The , also known as the Internet Layer in the model, operates at a higher layer than the Data Link Layer. It focuses on and forwarding across different networks. Its primary goal is to establish end-to-end connectivity between hosts, regardless of the underlying physical network.
The comes next in the network stack and is responsible for the reliable delivery of data from the source to the destination. It encapsulates the application data into and provides mechanisms such as flow control and error correction. The most commonly used Transport Layer protocol is TCP (Transmission Control Protocol).
Sitting atop the network stack is the , which provides services directly to users and applications. It enables applications to communicate with each other over a network, utilizing protocols such as HTTP, FTP, SMTP, and DNS.
The network stack, comprising these layers, is crucial for achieving various key attributes in network communication. , the ability of systems and devices to work together, is achieved through the standardized protocols within each layer. ensures the network can handle increasing data traffic without significant performance degradation. guarantees the successful delivery of data, minimizing loss or corruption. allows different vendors' devices to be seamlessly integrated into the network. ensures the network can adapt to technological advancements.
Each layer in the network stack receives data from the layer above, processes it, and passes it down to the next layer. Frames encapsulate data at the Data Link Layer, packets contain the data at the Network Layer, and segments hold the data at the Transport Layer. The represents the actual data being transmitted within these encapsulations.
