Traditional switches operate on the OSI model’s Layer 2 (the Data-Link Layer). Data packets are sent to specified switch ports based on their destination Media Access Control (MAC) addresses. In contrast, routers operate at Layer 3 (the Network Layer). Data packets are sent to the next h...
Each layer of the OSI model interacts with the layer directly above and below it, encapsulating and transmitting data in a structured manner. This approach helps network professionals troubleshoot issues, as problems can be isolated to a specific layer. The OSI model serves as a universal language...
Dive deep into the OSI Model to understand its seven layers, their functions, and how it defines the networking framework to implement protocols in seven layers.
The application layer is the seventh layer in the OSI model. Though the name might be deceiving, it’s not an actual application; rather, it’s a component within an application that manipulates information. It’s essentially designed to provide network services to the end user. Users can tra...
The data link layer lies just below Layer 1 of the OSI model, which is the physical layer. When the physical layer already exists, the data link layer encodes, decodes and organizes data bits -- also known asdata frames-- and then transports them as frames between two adjacentnodeson the...
In the context of networking, a switch is a device that connects devices together in a computer network, enabling them to communicate with each other by exchanging data packets. A switch operates at the data link layer of the OSI model. With a switch, it's possible for wired network device...
What is a Layer 3 Switch A Layer 3 switch operates at both Layer 2 (data link) and Layer 3 (network) of the OSI model. It combines the MAC address switching of Layer 2 with IP routing capabilities, allowing it to manage traffic between subnets or VLANs without a standalone router. Ho...
The OSI Model can be seen as a universal language for computer networking. It is based on the concept of splitting up a communication system into seven abstract layers, each one stacked upon the last. Each layer of the OSI Model handles a specific job and communicates with the layers above...
Network layer Access switch A switch working at the access layer, which is inexpensive and has a high port density, suitable for directly connecting IT devices and networks. Aggregation switch A switch working at the aggregation layer as an aggregation point of multiple access switches, with a hi...
OSI or Open Systems Interconnection is a popular network model that was developed by ISO in 1984. It consists of seven layers in which each layer performs its own functionalities. While communicating from one node to another, co-operation among all the layers is very important. ...