HP 800 HP DLPI Programmer's Guide - Page 20

Introduction to DLPI The Data Link Layer The Data Link Layer The data link layer (layer 2 in the OSI Reference Model) is responsible for the transmission and error-free delivery of bits of information over a physical communications medium. The model defines networking functionality at several layers and service providers between the layers. A model of the data link layer is presented here to describe concepts that are used throughout this guide. The model is described in terms of an interface architecture, as well as addressing concepts needed to identify different components of that architecture. The description of the model assumes familiarity with the OSI Reference Model. The Service Interface Each layer of the OSI Reference Model has the following two standards: • One that defines the services provided by the layer. • One that defines the protocol through which layer the services are provided. 20 Chapter 1