Definition
Data Link Layer
The data link layer enables communication within a local network.
Responsibilities
Data link layer tasks
The data link layer is responsible for:
- encapsulating packets from the network layer into frames;
- regulating access to the shared medium;
- transmitting frames over the medium;
- detecting errors on the recipient side.
MAC Address
Definition
Link to originalMAC Address
A MAC address is a 48-bit identifier assigned to a network interface by the device manufacturer. It must be unique within the local network and is used by the data link layer to address frames to specific hosts.
ARP
Definition
Link to originalAddress Resolution Protocol
ARP is a datalink layer used to determine a host’s IPv4 address from their MAC address.