Understanding Network Data Delivery

The Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model is a series of layers through which computer systems use to communicate. There are seven layers, and the networking layer would be layer 3. The network layer is responsible for packet forwarding, including routing through intermediate routers. However, when it comes to understanding network data delivery, we need to get through layer 2 before we can move on to layer 3.

The data link layer, or layer 2, is the protocol layer that transfers data between nodes on a network segment across the physical layer, or what is commonly known as a host’s physical address. Layer 2 is divided into two parts, consisting of the MAC and data link sublayers, detailing addressing and the layout of data frames, and Layer 3 includes a host’s logical address. Let’s take a closer look at how these layers work together to ensure a delicious flow of data.

Before we dig deep into layers 2 and 3, let’s start with a little bit of background on the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model. The OSI model was developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). It describes the layers that computer systems use to communicate over a network and was the first standard model for network communications adopted by all major computer and telecommunication companies in the early 1980s.

More Info: computech a+ certification