Application layer
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Application layer



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DEFINITION - In the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) communications model, the application layer provides services for an application program to ensure that effective communication with another application program in a network is possible. The application layer is not the application itself that is doing the communication. It is a service layer that provides these services:
  • Makes sure that the other party is identified and can be reached
  • If appropriate, authenticates either the message sender or receiver or both
  • Makes sure that necessary communication resources exist (for example, is there a modem in the sender's computer?)
  • Ensures agreement at both ends about error recovery procedures, data integrity, and privacy
  • Determines protocol and data syntax rules at the application level
It may be convenient to think of the application layer as the high-level set-up services for the application program or an interactive user.

LAST UPDATED: 14 Aug 2006


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