Unit 1

Lesson 4 - Protocol Layering Concepts

   Introduction

Protocols are implemented in layers because it is much easier to maintain and upgrade software that is built in modules. It is also easier to add new functionality, such as the relatively recent addition of wireless protocols to the Data Link Layer repertoire.

   Objectives

At the end of this lesson you should be able to:

1.

Understand why processes, and their corresponding protocols, are arranged in layers

2.

Understand the relationship between services and layers

3.

Know what constitutes a protocol stack

4.

Explain the flow of data and data encapsulation in a layered architecture

4.

Characterize the differences between encapsulation and decapsulation

Key Point
Layered software is easier to write, maintain, and upgrade.


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