Class Note 3: Computer Networks
Class Note 3: Computer Networks
Page 1
Network Fundamentals
Network Layers
Physical Layer (Layer 1): Defines the physical means of data transmission,
including cable specifications, wireless transmission, and network topology.
Data Link Layer (Layer 2): Provides error-free transfer of data frames between
two devices on the same network, including flow control and error detection.
Network Layer (Layer 3): Routes data packets between networks, including
addressing, routing, and congestion control.
Transport Layer (Layer 4): Provides reliable data transfer between devices,
including segmentation, acknowledgment, and reassembly.
Session Layer (Layer 5): Establishes, manages, and terminates connections
between applications, including dialogue control and synchronization.
Presentation Layer (Layer 6): Converts data into a format that can be
understood by the receiving device, including data compression and encryption.
Application Layer (Layer 7): Provides services and interfaces for applications
to communicate with each other, including email, file transfer, and web browsing.
Page 2
Network Security