What Is the Network Layer?
Learn about the network layer's key functions including routing through routers, handling packets, and addressing independent from data link layers. Understand its two planes, data and control, and the types of services it provides with a focus on unreliable connectionless communication.
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Let’s zoom out and have a look at the big picture.
Main Objectives & Key Responsibilities
The main objective of the network layer is to allow end systems to exchange information through intermediate systems called routers. The unit of information in the network layer is called a packet.
Limitations Of The Underlying Data Link Layer
Messages at the data link layer are called frames. There are more than a dozen different types of data link ...