Protocol “Layers”

Networks are complex!

• many “pieces”:

  • hosts
  • routers
  • links of various media
  • applications
  • protocols
  • hardware, software

Layering:

• The network is organized in layers, with each layer providing services to the layers above

• Each layer is distributed across many nodes

• If the layering is not done properly, the result is inefficiency

Next slide

Back to first slide

View graphic version