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Data Link Layer

The Data Link Layer is the second layer of the OSI model, responsible for data transfer between devices on the same network segment. Its key functions include framing, physical addressing, error control, flow control, and access control, with sub-layers for Logical Link Control and Media Access Control. A practical example is a home Wi-Fi network, where the Data Link Layer ensures effective communication between devices like laptops and routers.

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107 views1 page

Data Link Layer

The Data Link Layer is the second layer of the OSI model, responsible for data transfer between devices on the same network segment. Its key functions include framing, physical addressing, error control, flow control, and access control, with sub-layers for Logical Link Control and Media Access Control. A practical example is a home Wi-Fi network, where the Data Link Layer ensures effective communication between devices like laptops and routers.

Uploaded by

tech4fresherss
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as ODT, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

The Data Link Layer is the second layer in the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model of

computer networking. It is crucial because it establishes, maintains, and decides how data transfer
happens between two devices on the same network segment. Here's a breakdown:

Functions of the Data Link Layer:


1. Framing: It encapsulates network layer data packets into frames. It adds a header and a
trailer to each frame to create a data unit that can be transferred.
2. Physical Addressing: The header added to the frame contains the MAC (Media Access
Control) address of the source and destination devices, ensuring data is sent to the correct
location on a local network.
3. Error Control: The data link layer adds error detection and correction mechanisms to
ensure data integrity. It can detect and sometimes correct errors that may occur in the
physical layer.
4. Flow Control: It manages data flow between the devices to prevent overwhelming slower
devices with too much data.
5. Access Control: It determines how devices share the physical medium. For example, in
Ethernet networks, it uses CSMA/CD (Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision
Detection) to manage access.

Data Link Layer Sub-layers:


1. Logical Link Control (LLC): Provides interface with network layer protocols and ensures
error-free communication.
2. Media Access Control (MAC): Deals with the control of how data is placed on the
transmission medium.

Real-World Example:
Consider a home Wi-Fi network. The data link layer is responsible for making sure your laptop can
communicate effectively with your router. It frames the data your laptop sends, addresses it
correctly, checks for errors, manages data flow, and decides who gets to use the communication
channel at any given time.

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