Which of the following layer of OSI Reference model is also called end-to-end…

2017

Which of the following layer of OSI Reference model is also called end-to-end layer ?

  1. A.

    Network layer

  2. B.

    Datalink layer

  3. C.

    Session layer

  4. D.

    Transport layer

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Correct answer: D

Answer: Transport layer.

Explanation: The transport layer is called the end-to-end layer because it provides services that enable direct communication between processes on different hosts.

  • Segmentation and reassembly: Breaks application data into segments at the sender and reassembles them at the receiver.

  • Reliability: Provides reliable delivery when using protocols like TCP (error detection, retransmission, acknowledgements).

  • Flow control and congestion control: Prevents sender from overwhelming the receiver or the network.

  • Multiplexing and demultiplexing: Uses port numbers to deliver data to the correct application processes.

Why the other layers are not considered the end-to-end layer:

  • Network layer: Handles routing and logical addressing (IP) between networks, but does not provide transport-level reliability or port-based multiplexing.

  • Data link layer: Manages node-to-node framing and error detection on a single link; its scope is the local network segment, not end-to-end host communication.

  • Session layer: Coordinates and manages sessions between applications but does not implement segmentation, end-to-end reliability, or port multiplexing provided by the transport layer.

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