Data-Link layer
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Data-Link layer


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DEFINITION - The Data-Link layer is the protocol layer in a program that handles the moving of data in and out across a physical link in a network. The Data-Link layer is layer 2 in the Open Systems Interconnect (OSI) model for a set of telecommunication protocols.

The Data-Link layer contains two sublayers that are described in the IEEE-802 LAN standards:

  • Media Access Control (MAC)
  • Logical Link Control (LLC)

The Data-Link layer ensures that an initial connection has been set up, divides output data into data frames, and handles the acknowledgements from a receiver that the data arrived successfully. It also ensures that incoming data has been received successfully by analyzing bit patterns at special places in the frames.

Learn more about The OSI Model
OSI -- Securing the stack: An OSI model security reference with links to tips in "OSI -- securing the stack" series.
Extending OSI to Network Security -- Chapter 1 of 'Hack the Stack': The goal of this chapter is to take the well-known Open Systems Interconnect (OSI) model and use it to present security topics in a new and unique way.
OSI model: Crash Course: The OSI model is the conceptual backbone of most enterprise networks, but do you remember all the details? Read our rundown of the OSI model and what all those layers do.
FastFacts on the OSI model: These resources will help you better understand the OSI model and all those layers in a snap.
The best of 2004: What was on your mind during 2004? We've compiled our most popular content for the year; browse through for a refresher on the technologies you'll need to carry you into 2005.
Understanding Layer 2, 3, and 4 protocols: This chapter excerpt explains the layers of the OSI model, switching, TCP, UDP, and VRRP.

LAST UPDATED: 01 Apr 2005

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