The plaintext data at the source is encrypted into ciphertext (unreadable format), then it is sent to the receiver, where the ciphertext is decrypted into plaintext. Now, if the hacker tries to hack the data, the hacker receives an encrypted, unreadable form, and if the hacker tries to send modified data, the receiver can detect the modification during decryption; thereby, the data remains safe. If the file size is large, it becomes difficult to transmit the large file over the network. File size can be decreased by compressing the file for easy transmission of data. Compression is the method of diminishing the size of a file to transmit data easily in less time. When the compressed data reaches the receiver, the data is reconstructed back to the original size, and this process is called decompression.
The presentation layer in the OSI model is classified into two sublayers:
This sublayer offers services to layer-7, i.e., the application layer, and requests services from layer-5, i.e., the session layer. It supports various application services, such as Reliable Transfer Service Element (RTSE), Remote Operation Service Element (ROSE), Association Control Service Element (ACSE), and Commitment Concurrency and Recovery (CCR). This sublayer offers application-specific protocols, such as Message Oriented Text Interchange Standard (MOTIS), Remote Database Access (RDA), File Transfer Access and Manager (FTAM), Common Management Information Protocol (CMIP), Virtual Terminal (VT), Distributed Transaction Processing (DTP), Job Transfer and Manipulation (JTM), and others. It is a presentation layer protocol in the OSI model, which was formed by Citrix Systems. It is used for transferring data from server to client. It is a very thin protocol as it does not require much overhead in order to transmit data from the server over to the client. It is well-optimized for the WAN. It is the protocol that is used to implement the presentation layer of the OSI model. It provides different kinds of data representation, such as images, video, audio, numbers, etc. It is used for Microsoft Remote Procedure Call (Microsoft RPC) and Distributed Computing Environment (DCE) / Remote Procedure Calls (RPC). It is a communication protocol that was specifically designed for macOS by Apple, Inc. It provides file services for Classic Mac OS and macOS. This protocol is used to share files over the network. It is a protocol that is associated with the client-server operating system. The user can access the directory, print, message, file, clock synchronization, etc., with the help of this protocol. It supports many platforms, such as Linux, Classic Mac OS, Windows NT, Mac OS X, and Microsoft Windows. It is a telecommunications equipment that splits a stream of data into separate packets and formats packet headers for asynchronous communication on X.25 networks. It receives packets from the network and converts them into a stream of data. The PAD provides many asynchronous terminal connectivities to a host computer. It is a computer network protocol that is used to transfer data between two systems. It was first published in 1987. XDR is used by various systems such as NDMP, Network File System, NetCDF, ZFS, Open Network Computer Remote Procedure Call, and others. It is a protocol that offers ISO presentation services over TCP/IP based networks. This protocol explains an approach to provide stream-line support for OSI over TCP/IP based networks.
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The OSI Model – The 7 Layers of Networking Explained in Plain English
By Chloe Tucker
This article explains the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model and the 7 layers of networking, in plain English.
The OSI model is a conceptual framework that is used to describe how a network functions. In plain English, the OSI model helped standardize the way computer systems send information to each other.
Learning networking is a bit like learning a language - there are lots of standards and then some exceptions. Therefore, it’s important to really understand that the OSI model is not a set of rules. It is a tool for understanding how networks function.
Once you learn the OSI model, you will be able to further understand and appreciate this glorious entity we call the Internet, as well as be able to troubleshoot networking issues with greater fluency and ease.
All hail the Internet!
Prerequisites
You don’t need any prior programming or networking experience to understand this article. However, you will need:
Basic familiarity with common networking terms (explained below)
A curiosity about how things work :)
Learning Objectives
Over the course of this article, you will learn:
What the OSI model is
The purpose of each of the 7 layers
The problems that can happen at each of the 7 layers
The difference between TCP/IP model and the OSI model
Common Networking Terms
Here are some common networking terms that you should be familiar with to get the most out of this article. I’ll use these terms when I talk about OSI layers next.
A node is a physical electronic device hooked up to a network, for example a computer, printer, router, and so on. If set up properly, a node is capable of sending and/or receiving information over a network.
Nodes may be set up adjacent to one other, wherein Node A can connect directly to Node B, or there may be an intermediate node, like a switch or a router, set up between Node A and Node B.
Typically, routers connect networks to the Internet and switches operate within a network to facilitate intra-network communication. Learn more about hub vs. switch vs. router.
Here's an example:
For the nitpicky among us (yep, I see you), host is another term that you will encounter in networking. I will define a host as a type of node that requires an IP address. All hosts are nodes, but not all nodes are hosts. Please Tweet angrily at me if you disagree.
Links connect nodes on a network. Links can be wired, like Ethernet, or cable-free, like WiFi.
Links to can either be point-to-point, where Node A is connected to Node B, or multipoint, where Node A is connected to Node B and Node C.
When we’re talking about information being transmitted, this may also be described as a one-to-one vs. a one-to-many relationship.
A protocol is a mutually agreed upon set of rules that allows two nodes on a network to exchange data.
“A protocol defines the rules governing the syntax (what can be communicated), semantics (how it can be communicated), and synchronization (when and at what speed it can be communicated) of the communications procedure. Protocols can be implemented on hardware, software, or a combination of both. Protocols can be created by anyone, but the most widely adopted protocols are based on standards.” - The Illustrated Network.
Both wired and cable-free links can have protocols.
While anyone can create a protocol, the most widely adopted protocols are often based on standards published by Internet organizations such as the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF).
A network is a general term for a group of computers, printers, or any other device that wants to share data.
Network types include LAN, HAN, CAN, MAN, WAN, BAN, or VPN. Think I’m just randomly rhyming things with the word can ? I can ’t say I am - these are all real network types. Learn more here .
Topology describes how nodes and links fit together in a network configuration, often depicted in a diagram. Here are some common network topology types:
A network consists of nodes, links between nodes, and protocols that govern data transmission between nodes.
At whatever scale and complexity networks get to, you will understand what’s happening in all computer networks by learning the OSI model and 7 layers of networking.
What is the OSI Model?
The OSI model consists of 7 layers of networking.
First, what’s a layer?
No, a layer - not a lair . Here there are no dragons.
A layer is a way of categorizing and grouping functionality and behavior on and of a network.
In the OSI model, layers are organized from the most tangible and most physical, to less tangible and less physical but closer to the end user.
Each layer abstracts lower level functionality away until by the time you get to the highest layer. All the details and inner workings of all the other layers are hidden from the end user.
How to remember all the names of the layers? Easy.
Please | Physical Layer
Do | Data Link Layer
Not | Network Layer
Tell (the) | Transport Layer
Secret | Session Layer
Password (to) | Presentation Layer
Anyone | Application Layer
Keep in mind that while certain technologies, like protocols, may logically “belong to” one layer more than another, not all technologies fit neatly into a single layer in the OSI model. For example, Ethernet, 802.11 (Wifi) and the Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) procedure operate on >1 layer.
The OSI is a model and a tool, not a set of rules.
OSI Layer 1
Layer 1 is the physical layer . There’s a lot of technology in Layer 1 - everything from physical network devices, cabling, to how the cables hook up to the devices. Plus if we don’t need cables, what the signal type and transmission methods are (for example, wireless broadband).
Instead of listing every type of technology in Layer 1, I’ve created broader categories for these technologies. I encourage readers to learn more about each of these categories:
Nodes (devices) and networking hardware components. Devices include hubs, repeaters, routers, computers, printers, and so on. Hardware components that live inside of these devices include antennas, amplifiers, Network Interface Cards (NICs), and more.
Device interface mechanics. How and where does a cable connect to a device (cable connector and device socket)? What is the size and shape of the connector, and how many pins does it have? What dictates when a pin is active or inactive?
Functional and procedural logic. What is the function of each pin in the connector - send or receive? What procedural logic dictates the sequence of events so a node can start to communicate with another node on Layer 2?
Cabling protocols and specifications. Ethernet (CAT), USB, Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) , and more. Specifications include maximum cable length, modulation techniques, radio specifications, line coding, and bits synchronization (more on that below).
Cable types. Options include shielded or unshielded twisted pair, untwisted pair, coaxial and so on. Learn more about cable types here .
Signal type. Baseband is a single bit stream at a time, like a railway track - one-way only. Broadband consists of multiple bit streams at the same time, like a bi-directional highway.
Signal transmission method (may be wired or cable-free). Options include electrical (Ethernet), light (optical networks, fiber optics), radio waves (802.11 WiFi, a/b/g/n/ac/ax variants or Bluetooth). If cable-free, then also consider frequency: 2.5 GHz vs. 5 GHz. If it’s cabled, consider voltage. If cabled and Ethernet, also consider networking standards like 100BASE-T and related standards.
The data unit on Layer 1 is the bit.
A bit the smallest unit of transmittable digital information. Bits are binary, so either a 0 or a 1. Bytes, consisting of 8 bits, are used to represent single characters, like a letter, numeral, or symbol.
Bits are sent to and from hardware devices in accordance with the supported data rate (transmission rate, in number of bits per second or millisecond) and are synchronized so the number of bits sent and received per unit of time remains consistent (this is called bit synchronization). The way bits are transmitted depends on the signal transmission method.
Nodes can send, receive, or send and receive bits. If they can only do one, then the node uses a simplex mode. If they can do both, then the node uses a duplex mode. If a node can send and receive at the same time, it’s full-duplex – if not, it’s just half-duplex.
The original Ethernet was half-duplex. Full-duplex Ethernet is an option now, given the right equipment.
How to Troubleshoot OSI Layer 1 Problems
Here are some Layer 1 problems to watch out for:
Defunct cables, for example damaged wires or broken connectors
Broken hardware network devices, for example damaged circuits
Stuff being unplugged (...we’ve all been there)
If there are issues in Layer 1, anything beyond Layer 1 will not function properly.
Layer 1 contains the infrastructure that makes communication on networks possible.
It defines the electrical, mechanical, procedural, and functional specifications for activating, maintaining, and deactivating physical links between network devices. - Source
Fun fact: deep-sea communications cables transmit data around the world. This map will blow your mind: https://www.submarinecablemap.com/
And because you made it this far, here’s a koala:
OSI Layer 2
Layer 2 is the data link layer . Layer 2 defines how data is formatted for transmission, how much data can flow between nodes, for how long, and what to do when errors are detected in this flow.
In more official tech terms:
Line discipline. Who should talk for how long? How long should nodes be able to transit information for?
Flow control. How much data should be transmitted?
Error control - detection and correction . All data transmission methods have potential for errors, from electrical spikes to dirty connectors. Once Layer 2 technologies tell network administrators about an issue on Layer 2 or Layer 1, the system administrator can correct for those errors on subsequent layers. Layer 2 is mostly concerned with error detection, not error correction. ( Source )
There are two distinct sublayers within Layer 2:
Media Access Control (MAC): the MAC sublayer handles the assignment of a hardware identification number, called a MAC address, that uniquely identifies each device on a network. No two devices should have the same MAC address. The MAC address is assigned at the point of manufacturing. It is automatically recognized by most networks. MAC addresses live on Network Interface Cards (NICs). Switches keep track of all MAC addresses on a network. Learn more about MAC addresses on PC Mag and in this article . Learn more about network switches here .
Logical Link Control (LLC): the LLC sublayer handles framing addressing and flow control. The speed depends on the link between nodes, for example Ethernet or Wifi.
The data unit on Layer 2 is a frame .
Each frame contains a frame header, body, and a frame trailer:
Header: typically includes MAC addresses for the source and destination nodes.
Body: consists of the bits being transmitted.
Trailer: includes error detection information. When errors are detected, and depending on the implementation or configuration of a network or protocol, frames may be discarded or the error may be reported up to higher layers for further error correction. Examples of error detection mechanisms: Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC) and Frame Check Sequence (FCS). Learn more about error detection techniques here .
Typically there is a maximum frame size limit, called an Maximum Transmission Unit, MTU. Jumbo frames exceed the standard MTU, learn more about jumbo frames here .
How to Troubleshoot OSI Layer 2 Problems
Here are some Layer 2 problems to watch out for:
All the problems that can occur on Layer 1
Unsuccessful connections (sessions) between two nodes
Sessions that are successfully established but intermittently fail
Frame collisions
The Data Link Layer allows nodes to communicate with each other within a local area network. The foundations of line discipline, flow control, and error control are established in this layer.
OSI Layer 3
Layer 3 is the network layer . This is where we send information between and across networks through the use of routers. Instead of just node-to-node communication, we can now do network-to-network communication.
Routers are the workhorse of Layer 3 - we couldn’t have Layer 3 without them. They move data packets across multiple networks.
Not only do they connect to Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to provide access to the Internet, they also keep track of what’s on its network (remember that switches keep track of all MAC addresses on a network), what other networks it’s connected to, and the different paths for routing data packets across these networks.
Routers store all of this addressing and routing information in routing tables.
Here’s a simple example of a routing table:
The data unit on Layer 3 is the data packet . Typically, each data packet contains a frame plus an IP address information wrapper. In other words, frames are encapsulated by Layer 3 addressing information.
The data being transmitted in a packet is also sometimes called the payload . While each packet has everything it needs to get to its destination, whether or not it makes it there is another story.
Layer 3 transmissions are connectionless, or best effort - they don't do anything but send the traffic where it’s supposed to go. More on data transport protocols on Layer 4.
Once a node is connected to the Internet, it is assigned an Internet Protocol (IP) address, which looks either like 172.16. 254.1 (IPv4 address convention) or like 2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334 (IPv6 address convention). Routers use IP addresses in their routing tables.
IP addresses are associated with the physical node’s MAC address via the Address Resolution Protocol (ARP), which resolves MAC addresses with the node’s corresponding IP address.
ARP is conventionally considered part of Layer 2, but since IP addresses don’t exist until Layer 3, it’s also part of Layer 3.
How to Troubleshoot OSI Layer 3 Problems
Here are some Layer 3 problems to watch out for:
All the problems that can crop up on previous layers :)
Faulty or non-functional router or other node
IP address is incorrectly configured
Many answers to Layer 3 questions will require the use of command-line tools like ping , trace , show ip route , or show ip protocols . Learn more about troubleshooting on layer 1-3 here .
The Network Layer allows nodes to connect to the Internet and send information across different networks.
OSI Layer 4
Layer 4 is the transport layer . This where we dive into the nitty gritty specifics of the connection between two nodes and how information is transmitted between them. It builds on the functions of Layer 2 - line discipline, flow control, and error control.
This layer is also responsible for data packet segmentation, or how data packets are broken up and sent over the network.
Unlike the previous layer, Layer 4 also has an understanding of the whole message, not just the contents of each individual data packet. With this understanding, Layer 4 is able to manage network congestion by not sending all the packets at once.
The data units of Layer 4 go by a few names. For TCP, the data unit is a packet. For UDP, a packet is referred to as a datagram. I’ll just use the term data packet here for the sake of simplicity.
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and User Datagram Protocol (UDP) are two of the most well-known protocols in Layer 4.
TCP, a connection-oriented protocol, prioritizes data quality over speed.
TCP explicitly establishes a connection with the destination node and requires a handshake between the source and destination nodes when data is transmitted. The handshake confirms that data was received. If the destination node does not receive all of the data, TCP will ask for a retry.
TCP also ensures that packets are delivered or reassembled in the correct order. Learn more about TCP here .
UDP, a connectionless protocol, prioritizes speed over data quality. UDP does not require a handshake, which is why it’s called connectionless.
Because UDP doesn’t have to wait for this acknowledgement, it can send data at a faster rate, but not all of the data may be successfully transmitted and we’d never know.
If information is split up into multiple datagrams, unless those datagrams contain a sequence number, UDP does not ensure that packets are reassembled in the correct order. Learn more about UDP here .
TCP and UDP both send data to specific ports on a network device, which has an IP address. The combination of the IP address and the port number is called a socket.
Learn more about sockets here .
Learn more about the differences and similarities between these two protocols here .
How to Troubleshoot OSI Layer 4 Problems
Here are some Layer 4 problems to watch out for:
Blocked ports - check your Access Control Lists (ACL) & firewalls
Quality of Service (QoS) settings. QoS is a feature of routers/switches that can prioritize traffic, and they can really muck things up. Learn more about QoS here .
The Transport Layer provides end-to-end transmission of a message by segmenting a message into multiple data packets; the layer supports connection-oriented and connectionless communication.
OSI Layer 5
Layer 5 is the session layer . This layer establishes, maintains, and terminates sessions.
A session is a mutually agreed upon connection that is established between two network applications. Not two nodes! Nope, we’ve moved on from nodes. They were so Layer 4.
Just kidding, we still have nodes, but Layer 5 doesn’t need to retain the concept of a node because that’s been abstracted out (taken care of) by previous layers.
So a session is a connection that is established between two specific end-user applications. There are two important concepts to consider here:
Client and server model: the application requesting the information is called the client, and the application that has the requested information is called the server.
Request and response model: while a session is being established and during a session, there is a constant back-and-forth of requests for information and responses containing that information or “hey, I don’t have what you’re requesting.”
Sessions may be open for a very short amount of time or a long amount of time. They may fail sometimes, too.
Depending on the protocol in question, various failure resolution processes may kick in. Depending on the applications/protocols/hardware in use, sessions may support simplex, half-duplex, or full-duplex modes.
Examples of protocols on Layer 5 include Network Basic Input Output System (NetBIOS) and Remote Procedure Call Protocol (RPC), and many others.
From here on out (layer 5 and up), networks are focused on ways of making connections to end-user applications and displaying data to the user.
How to Troubleshoot OSI Layer 5 Problems
Here are some Layer 5 problems to watch out for:
Servers are unavailable
Servers are incorrectly configured, for example Apache or PHP configs
Session failure - disconnect, timeout, and so on.
The Session Layer initiates, maintains, and terminates connections between two end-user applications. It responds to requests from the presentation layer and issues requests to the transport layer.
OSI Layer 6
Layer 6 is the presentation layer . This layer is responsible for data formatting, such as character encoding and conversions, and data encryption.
The operating system that hosts the end-user application is typically involved in Layer 6 processes. This functionality is not always implemented in a network protocol.
Layer 6 makes sure that end-user applications operating on Layer 7 can successfully consume data and, of course, eventually display it.
There are three data formatting methods to be aware of:
American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII): this 7-bit encoding technique is the most widely used standard for character encoding. One superset is ISO-8859-1, which provides most of the characters necessary for languages spoken in Western Europe.
Extended Binary-Coded Decimal Interchange Code (EBDCIC): designed by IBM for mainframe usage. This encoding is incompatible with other character encoding methods.
Unicode: character encodings can be done with 32-, 16-, or 8-bit characters and attempts to accommodate every known, written alphabet.
Learn more about character encoding methods in this article , and also here .
Encryption: SSL or TLS encryption protocols live on Layer 6. These encryption protocols help ensure that transmitted data is less vulnerable to malicious actors by providing authentication and data encryption for nodes operating on a network. TLS is the successor to SSL.
How to Troubleshoot OSI Layer 6 Problems
Here are some Layer 6 problems to watch out for:
Non-existent or corrupted drivers
Incorrect OS user access level
The Presentation Layer formats and encrypts data.
OSI Layer 7
Layer 7 is the application layer .
True to its name, this is the layer that is ultimately responsible for supporting services used by end-user applications. Applications include software programs that are installed on the operating system, like Internet browsers (for example, Firefox) or word processing programs (for example, Microsoft Word).
Applications can perform specialized network functions under the hood and require specialized services that fall under the umbrella of Layer 7.
Electronic mail programs, for example, are specifically created to run over a network and utilize networking functionality, such as email protocols, which fall under Layer 7.
Applications will also control end-user interaction, such as security checks (for example, MFA), identification of two participants, initiation of an exchange of information, and so on.
Protocols that operate on this level include File Transfer Protocol (FTP), Secure Shell (SSH), Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP), Internet Message Access Protocol (IMAP), Domain Name Service (DNS), and Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP).
While each of these protocols serve different functions and operate differently, on a high level they all facilitate the communication of information. ( Source )
How to Troubleshoot OSI Layer 7 Problems
Here are some Layer 7 problems to watch out for:
All issues on previous layers
Incorrectly configured software applications
User error (... we’ve all been there)
The Application Layer owns the services and functions that end-user applications need to work. It does not include the applications themselves.
Our Layer 1 koala is all grown up.
Learning check - can you apply makeup to a koala?
Don’t have a koala?
Well - answer these questions instead. It’s the next best thing, I promise.
What is the OSI model?
What are each of the layers?
How could I use this information to troubleshoot networking issues?
Congratulations - you’ve taken one step farther to understanding the glorious entity we call the Internet.
Learning Resources
Many, very smart people have written entire books about the OSI model or entire books about specific layers. I encourage readers to check out any O’Reilly-published books about the subject or about network engineering in general.
Here are some resources I used when writing this article:
The Illustrated Network, 2nd Edition
Protocol Data Unit (PDU): https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/difference-between-segments-packets-and-frames/
Troubleshooting Along the OSI Model: https://www.pearsonitcertification.com/articles/article.aspx?p=1730891
The OSI Model Demystified: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEEnLZV2wGI
OSI Model for Dummies: https://www.dummies.com/programming/networking/layers-in-the-osi-model-of-a-computer-network/
Chloe Tucker is an artist and computer science enthusiast based in Portland, Oregon. As a former educator, she's continuously searching for the intersection of learning and teaching, or technology and art. Reach out to her on Twitter @_chloetucker and check out her website at chloe.dev .
If you read this far, thank the author to show them you care. Say Thanks
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Network infrastructure
presentation layer
Andrew Froehlich, West Gate Networks
What is the presentation layer?
The presentation layer resides at Layer 6 of the Open Systems Interconnection ( OSI ) communications model and ensures that communications that pass through it are in the appropriate form for the recipient application. In other words, the presentation layer presents the data in a readable format from an application layer perspective.
For example, a presentation layer program could format a file transfer request in binary code to ensure a successful file transfer . Because binary is the most rudimentary of computing languages, it ensures that the receiving device can decipher and translate it into a format the application layer understands and expects.
How the presentation layer works
Once the application layer passes data meant for transport to another device in a certain format, the presentation layer then prepares this data in the most appropriate format the receiving application can understand.
Common data formats include the following:
American Standard Code for Information Interchange and Extended Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code for text;
JPEG , GIF and TIFF for images; and
MPEG, MIDI and QuickTime for video.
Encryption and decryption of data communications are also performed at the presentation layer. Here, encryption methods and keys exchange between the two communicating devices. Only the sender and receiver can properly encode and decode data so it returns to a readable format.
The presentation layer can serialize -- or translate -- more complex application data objects into a storable and transportable format. This helps to rebuild the object once it arrives at the other side of the communications stream. The presentation layer also deserializes the data stream and places it back into an object format that the application can understand by the application.
The tool that manages Hypertext Transfer Protocol ( HTTP ) is an example of a program that loosely adheres to the presentation layer of OSI.
Although it's technically considered an application-layer protocol per the TCP/IP model , HTTP includes presentation layer services within it. HTTP works when the requesting device forwards user requests passed to the web browser onto a web server elsewhere in the network.
HTTP receives a return message from the web server that includes a Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions ( MIME ) header. The MIME header indicates the type of file -- text, video, or audio -- that has been received so that an appropriate player utility can present the file to the user.
Functions of the presentation layer
ensures proper formatting and delivery to and from the application layer;
performs data encryption; and
manages serialization of data objects.
Editor's note: This article was republished in January 2023 to improve the reader experience.
Continue Reading About presentation layer
What is the difference between TCP/IP model vs. OSI model?
Data and file formatting
Related Terms
Dig deeper on network infrastructure.
What are the most important email security protocols?
file extension (file format)
network protocol
MIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions)
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Presentation layer and Session layer of the OSI model
There are two popular networking models: the OSI layers model and the TCP/IP layers model. The presentation layer and session layer exist only in the OSI layers models. The TCP/IP layers model merges them into the application layer.
The Presentation Layer
The presentation layer is the sixth layer of the OSI Reference model. It defines how data and information is transmitted and presented to the user. It translates data and format code in such a way that it is correctly used by the application layer.
It identifies the syntaxes that different applications use and formats data using those syntaxes. For example, a web browser receives a web page from a web server in the HTML language. HTML language includes many tags and markup that have no meaning for the end user but they have special meaning for the web browser. the web browser uses the presentation layer's logic to read those syntaxes and format data in such a way the web server wants it to be present to the user.
On the sender device, it encapsulates and compresses data before sending it to the network to increase the speed and security of the network. On the receiver device, it de-encapsulates and decompresses data before presenting it to the user.
Examples of the presentation layer
Example standards for representing graphical information: JPEG, GIF, JPEG, and TIFF.
Example standards for representing audio information: WAV, MIDI, MP3.
Example standards for representing video information: WMV, MOV, MP4, MPEG.
Example standards for representing text information: doc, xls, txt, pdf.
Functions of the presentation layer
It formats and presents data and information.
It encrypts and compresses data before giving it to the session layer.
It de-encrypts and decompresses the encrypted and compressed data it receives from the session layer.
Session layer
The session layer is the fifth layer of the OSI layers model. It is responsible for initiating, establishing, managing, and terminating sessions between the local application and the remote applications.
It defines standards for three modes of communication: full duplex, half-duplex, and simplex.
In the full duplex mode, both devices can send and receive data simultaneously. The internet connection is an example of the full duplex mode.
In the half duplex mode, only one device can send data at a time. A telephone conversation is an example of the half-duplex mode.
In the simplex mode, only one device can send data. A radio broadcast is an example of the simplex mode.
Functions of the session layer
It is responsible for terminating sessions, creating checkpoints, and recovering data when sessions are interrupted.
It opens and maintains logical communication channels between network applications running on the local host and network applications running on the remote host.
If a network application uses an authentication mechanism before it opens a logical communication channel (session) with the remote host, it handles the authentication process.
Examples of the session layer
Structure Query Language (SQL), Remote Procedure Call (RPC), and Network File System (NFS) are examples of the session layer.
By ComputerNetworkingNotes Updated on 2023-04-25
ComputerNetworkingNotes CCNA Study Guide Presentation layer and Session layer of the OSI model
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RSTP / RPVST Explained with Examples
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The presentation layer is the sixth layer of the OSI Reference Model protocol stack, and second from the top. It is different from the other layers in two key respects. First, it has a much more limited and specific function than the other layers; it's actually somewhat easy to describe, hurray! Second, it is used much less often than the other layers; in many types of connections it is not required.
The name of this layer suggests its main function as well: it deals with the presentation of data. More specifically, the presentation layer is charged with taking care of any issues that might arise where data sent from one system needs to be viewed in a different way by the other system. It also takes care of any special processing that must be done to data from the time an application tries to send it until the time it is sent over the network.
Here are some of the specific types of data handling issues that the presentation layer handles:
The reason that the presentation layer is not always used in network communications is that the jobs mentioned above are simply not always needed. Compression and encryption are usually considered optional, and translation features are also only needed in certain circumstances. Another reason why the presentation layer is sometimes not mentioned is that its functions may be performed as part of the application layer.
The fact that the translation job done by the presentation layer isn't always needed means that it is common for it to be skipped by actual protocol stack implementations. This means that protocols at layer seven may talk directly with those at layer five. Once again, this is part of the reason why all of the functions of layers five through seven may be included together in the same software package, as described in the overview of layers and layer groupings .
The sixth OSI model layer is called the . Protocols at this layer take care of manipulation tasks that transform data from one representation to another, such as translation, compression and encryption. In many cases, no such functions are required in a particular networking stack; if so, there may not be any protocol active at layer six.
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Presentation Layer of OSI Model (Layer-6)
Presentation Layer is responsible for representation & formatting of data for session Layer in encapsulation process. It is the 6th Layer in the seven layer OSI Model after Session Layer. Presentation layer serves like a translator & takes care that the data is sent in such a way that the receiver will understand the information or data and will be able to use the data. OSI Model divides the network communication processes into seven layers in order to simplify it. Each layer performs specific functions to support the layers above it. This seven Layer model starts from Physical till Application Layer & Presentation Layer is on 2nd place in this model as in below figure:
Functions/Duties of Presentation Layer
Each Layer in OSI Model Performs some important duties. Important functions performed by Presentation Layer are listed here:
The first & most important is, of course Data Formatting & Representation . When the presentation layer receives data from the application layer, to be sent over the network, it makes sure that the data is in the proper format. If it is not, the presentation layer converts the data to the proper format. On the other side of communication, when the presentation layer receives network data from the Presentation layer, it makes sure that the data is in the proper format and once again converts it if it is not.
It is also responsible for Data Encryption/Decryption: Presentation Layer carries out encryption at the transmitter end and decryption at the receiver end to keep data secure during transmission.
Data Compression/De-compression also falls under the responsibility matrix of Presentation Layer . Presentation Layer compresses data to a small size to reduce resource usage such as data storage space or transmission capacity.
*Encryption is typically done at this layer as well, although it can be done on the application, session, transport, or network layers, each having its own advantages and disadvantages
Presentation Layer Protocols
The OSI Model provides a conceptual framework for communication between computers, but the model itself is not a method of communication. Actual communication is made possible by using communication protocols. Each layer on the OSI Model has some protocols associated with it. Some important protocols on Presentation layer are listed in below:
JPEG/GIF/PNG/TIFF
Network Equipment/Components at Presentation Layer
Load Balancers
End Devices e.g. Computers, Smart Phones, Servers, …
Presentation Layer is the 6th Layer in seven Layer OSI Model. It performs important functions like Data Formatting, Data Representation, Data Encryption/Decryption, Data Compression and De-compression. Important Protocols at Presentation Layer include ASCII, EBCDIC, JPEG, MPEG, GIF, PNG, TIFF, SSL & TLS. Equipment operating at Presentation Layer include Firewalls, Gateways, Load Balancers & Computers.
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Presentation Layer
Last Edited
What is the Presentation Layer?
Presentation Layer is the Layer 6 of the seven-layer Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) reference model . The presentation layer structures data that is passed down from the application layer into a format suitable for network transmission. This layer is responsible for data encryption, data compression, character set conversion, interpretation of graphics commands, and so on. The network redirector also functions at this layer.
Presentation Layer functions
Translation: Before being transmitted, information in the form of characters and numbers should be changed to bit streams. Layer 6 is responsible for interoperability between encoding methods as different computers use different encoding methods. It translates data between the formats the network requires and the format the computer.
Encryption: Encryption at the transmitter and decryption at the receiver
Compression: Data compression to reduce the bandwidth of the data to be transmitted. The primary role of data compression is to reduce the number of bits to be transmitted. Multimedia files, such as audio and video, are bigger than text files and compression is more important.
Role of Presentation Layer in the OSI Model
This layer is not always used in network communications because its functions are not always necessary. Translation is only needed if different types of machines need to talk with each other. Encryption is optional in communication. If the information is public there is no need to encrypt and decrypt info. Compression is also optional. If files are small there is no need for compression.
Explaining Layer 6 in video
Most real-world protocol suites, such as TCP/IP , do not use separate presentation layer protocols. This layer is mostly an abstraction in real-world networking.
An example of a program that loosely adheres to layer 6 of OSI is the tool that manages the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) — although it’s technically considered an application-layer protocol per the TCP/IP model.
However, HTTP includes presentation layer services within it. HTTP works when the requesting device forwards user requests passed to the web browser onto a web server elsewhere in the network.
It receives a return message from the web server that includes a multipurpose internet mail extensions (MIME) header. The MIME header indicates the type of file – text, video, or audio – that has been received so that an appropriate player utility can be used to present the file to the user.
In short, the presentation layer
Makes sure that data which is being transferred or received should be accurate or clear to all the devices which are there, in a closed network.
ensures proper formatting and delivery to and from the application layer;
performs data encryption; and
manages serialization of data objects.
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Posted on May 20
Computer Networks: Protocol Layering and the OSI Model
Protocol layering simplifies network protocols by dividing the functions into multiple layers, making it easier to manage and develop network systems. This article introduces the protocol layering and the basic concept of the OSI model.
What is Protocol Layering?
Overview of the osi model.
Physical Layer
Data Link Layer
Network Layer
Transport Layer
Session Layer
Presentation Layer
Application Layer
Protocol layering is a design approach that separates network functions into multiple layers that can perform complex tasks in simpler, manageable segments. Each layer receives specific services from the lower layer and provides specific services to the higher layer after performing certain functions. This is like modulizing functions in software development, by separating functions, it simplifies the management of each service. In network communication, the interactions between higher and lower layers are called "interfaces," while the interactions between the same layers across different systems are called "protocols."
3-1. Application Layer This layer is responsible for handling the networking functions of applications. For example, in an email application, the functionality that allows messages to be sent is managed by this layer, whereas the process of writing messages is not related to this layer.
3-2. Presentation Layer This Layer is responsible for translating data between the application layer and the network format. It ensures that data is presented in a format that the application layer can handle. For example, it converts data from a device-specific format to a network-friendly format. Additionally, you might have experienced issues reading a Word file due to version differences. This is usually a bug in this layer.
3-3. Session Layer This layer establishes, manages, and terminates connections (or sessions) between applications. If communication is interrupted, it can restart or resume the session where it left off.
3-4. Transport Layer This layer has a role in delivering data safely and reliably from one end system to another. It manages the flow of data, ensuring packets are sent in the correct order, and retransmits any lost packets. It's like ensuring that all friends traveling arrive correctly, without anyone getting lost anywhere.
3-5. Network Layer This layer is responsible for delivering data to its intended destination across multiple network segments. It involves determining the optimal path for data transmission through various routers. Thanks to this layer, it selects the most efficient path to ensure the data reaches the correct destination efficiently and reliably.
3-6. Data Link Layer This layer allows devices that are directly connected, like two computers on the same network, to talk to each other. It takes a series of bits (0s and 1s) and groups them into frames. These frames help send and receive data clearly and efficiently between devices.
3-7. Physical Layer This layer converts a bit (a sequence of the digits 0 and 1) into high and low voltages or flashes of light, and conversely, converts high and low voltages or flashes of light back into bits.
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OSI model - What's the presentation and session layer for?
So I feel I pretty well understand the application layer, and everything below (and including) the transport layer.
The session and presentation layers, though, I don't fully understand. I've read the simplistic descriptions in Wikipedia, but it doesn't have an example of why separating out those layers is useful.
What is the session layer? What does it do, and under what circumstances is it better to have a session layer than simply talk to the transport with your app?
What is the presentation layer? (same questions as above)
network-programming
7 Answers 7
The session layer is meant to store states between two connections, like what we use cookies for when working with web programming.
The presentation layer is meant to convert between different formats. This was simpler when the only format that was worried about was character encoding, ie ASCII and EBCDIC. When you consider all of the different formats that we have today(Quicktime, Flash, Pdf) centralizing this layer is out of the question.
TCP/IP doesn't make any allocation to these layers, since they are really out of the scope of a networking protocol. It's up to the applications that take advantage of the stack to implement these.
The reasons there aren't any examples on wikipedia is that there aren't a whole lot of examples of the OSI network model, period.
OSI has once again created a standard nobody uses, so nobody really know how one should use it.
Layers 5-6 are not commonly used in today's web applications, so you don't hear much about them. The TCP/IP stack is slightly different than a pure OSI Model.
One of the reasons TCP/IP is used today instead of OSI is it was too bloated and theoretical, the session and presentation layer aren't really needed as separate layers as it turned out.
I think that presentation layer protocols define the format of data. This means protocols like XML or ASN.1. You could argue that video/audio codecs are part of the presentation layer Although this is probably heading towards the application layer.
I can't help you with the session layer. That has always baffled me.
To be honest, there are very vague boundaries in everything above the transport layer. This is because it is usually handled by a single software application. Also, these layers are not directly associated with transporting data from A to B. Layers 4 and below each have a very specific purpose in moving the data e.g. switching, routing, ensuring data integrity etc. This makes it easier to distinguish between these layers.
Presentation Layer The Presentation Layer represents the area that is independent of data representation at the application layer - in general, it represents the preparation or translation of application format to network format, or from network formatting to application format. In other words, the layer “presents” data for the application or the network. A good example of this is encryption and decryption of data for secure transmission - this happens at Layer 6.
Session Layer When two devices, computers or servers need to “speak” with one another, a session needs to be created, and this is done at the Session Layer. Functions at this layer involve setup, coordination (how long should a system wait for a response, for example) and termination between the applications at each end of the session.
For the presentation layer :because most of communication done between heterogeneous systems (Operating Systems,programing langages,cpu architectures)we need to use a unified idepedent specification .like ANS1 ans BRE.
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Physical Layer
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The Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) networking model defines a conceptual framework for communications between computer systems. The model is an ISO standard which identifies seven fundamental networking layers, from the physical hardware up to high-level software applications.
Each layer in the model handles a specific networking function. The standard helps administrators to visualize networks, isolate problems, and understand the use cases for new technologies. Many network equipment vendors advertise the OSI layer that their products are designed to slot into.
OSI was adopted as an international standard in 1984. It remains relevant today despite the changes to network implementation that have occurred since first publication. Cloud, edge, and IoT can all be accommodated within the model.
In this article, we'll explain each of the seven OSI layers in turn. We'll start from the lowest level, labelled as Layer 1.
1. Physical Layer
All networking begins with physical equipment. This layer encapsulates the hardware involved in the communications, such as switches and cables. Data is transferred as a stream of binary digits - 0 or 1 - that the hardware prepares from input it's been fed. The physical layer specifies the electrical signals that are used to encode the data over the wire, such as a 5-volt pulse to indicate a binary "1."
Errors in the physical layer tend to result in data not being transferred at all. There could be a break in the connection due to a missing plug or incorrect power supply. Problems can also arise when two components disagree on the physical encoding of data values. In the case of wireless connections, a weak signal can lead to bit loss during transmission.
2. Data Link Layer
The model's second layer concerns communication between two devices that are directly connected to each other in the same network. It's responsible for establishing a link that allows data to be exchanged using an agreed protocol. Many network switches operate at Layer 2.
The data link layer will eventually pass bits to the physical layer. As it sits above the hardware, the data link layer can perform basic error detection and correction in response to physical transfer issues. There are two sub-layers that define these responsibilities: Logical Link Control (LLC) that handles frame synchronization and error detection, and Media Access Control (MAC) which uses MAC addresses to constrain how devices acquire permission to transfer data.
3. Network Layer
The network layer is the first level to support data transfer between two separately maintained networks. It's redundant in situations where all your devices exist on the same network.
Data that comes to the network layer from higher levels is first broken up into packets suitable for transmission. Packets received from the remote network in response are reassembled into usable data.
The network layer is where several important protocols are first encountered. These include IP (for determining the path to a destination), ICMP, routing, and virtual LAN. Together these mechanisms facilitate inter-network communications with a familiar degree of usability. However operations at this level aren't necessarily reliable: messages aren't required to succeed and may not necessarily be retried.
4. Transport Layer
The transport layer provides higher-level abstractions for coordinating data transfers between devices. Transport controllers determine where data will be sent and the rate it should be transferred at.
Layer 4 is where TCP and UDP are implemented, providing the port numbers that allow devices to expose multiple communication channels. Load balancing is often situated at Layer 4 as a result, allowing traffic to be routed between ports on a target device.
Transport mechanisms are expected to guarantee successful communication. Stringent error controls are applied to recover from packet loss and retry failed transfers. Flow control is enforced so the sender doesn't overwhelm the remote device by sending data more quickly than the available bandwidth permits.
5. Session Layer
Layer 5 creates ongoing communication sessions between two devices. Sessions are used to negotiate new connections, agree on their duration, and gracefully close down the connection once the data exchange is complete. This layer ensures that sessions remain open long enough to transfer all the data that's being sent.
Checkpoint control is another responsibility that's held by Layer 5. Sessions can define checkpoints to facilitate progress updates and resumable transmissions. A new checkpoint could be set every few megabytes for a file upload, allowing the sender to continue from a particular point if the transfer gets interrupted.
Many significant protocols operate at Layer 5 including authentication and logon technologies such as LDAP and NetBIOS. These establish semi-permanent communication channels for managing an end user session on a specific device.
6. Presentation Layer
The presentation layer handles preparation of data for the application layer that comes next in the model. After data has made it up from the hardware, through the data link, and across the transport, it's almost ready to be consumed by high-level components. The presentation layer completes the process by performing any formatting tasks that may be required.
Decryption, decoding, and decompression are three common operations found at this level. The presentation layer processes received data into formats that can be eventually utilized by a client application. Similarly, outward-bound data is reformatted into compressed and encrypted structures that are suitable for network transmission.
TLS is one major technology that's part of the presentation layer. Certificate verification and data decryption is handled before requests reach the network client, allowing information to be consumed with confidence that it's authentic.
7. Application Layer
The application layer is the top of the stack. It represents the functionality that's perceived by network end users. Applications in the OSI model provide a convenient end-to-end interface to facilitate complete data transfers, without making you think about hardware, data links, sessions, and compression.
Despite its name, this layer doesn't relate to client-side software such as your web browser or email client. An application in OSI terms is a protocol that caters for the complete communication of complex data through layers 1-6.
HTTP, FTP, DHCP, DNS, and SSH all exist at the application layer. These are high-level mechanisms which permit direct transfers of user data between an origin device and a remote server. You only need minimal knowledge of the workings of the other layers.
The seven OSI layers describe the transfer of data through computer networks. Understanding the functions and responsibilities of each layer can help you identify the source of problems and assess the intended use case for new components.
OSI is an abstract model that doesn't directly map to the specific networking implementations commonly used today. As an example, the TCP/IP protocol works on its own simpler system of four layers: Network Access, Internet, Transport, and Application. These abstract and absorb the equivalent OSI layers: the application layer spans OSI L5 to L7, while L1 and L2 are combined in TCP/IP's concept of Network Access.
OSI remains applicable despite its lack of direct real-world application. It's been around so long that it's widely understood among administrators from all backgrounds. Its relatively high level of abstraction has also ensured it's remained relevant in the face of new networking paradigms, many of which have targeted Layer 3 and above. An awareness of the seven layers and their responsibilities can still help you appreciate the flow of data through a network while uncovering integration opportunities for new components.
Unveiling the Interpreter: Fortifying the Presentation Layer’s Role in Cybersecurity
March 28, 2024
Cherise Esparza
Welcome back to Tea with C. As we navigate deeper into the OSI model, today’s spotlight shines on Layer 6: the Presentation Layer. The Presentation Layer, often likened to an adept interpreter in the digital realm, plays a pivotal role in the seamless transmission and reception of data across the network.
At its essence, the Presentation Layer is tasked with data translation, encryption, and compression. It ensures that the information sent from the application layer is suitably formatted for transmission across the network and can be accurately interpreted by the receiving system. This layer is a universal translator for network communications, bridging different data formats into a universally understood language.
Encryption protocols at this layer are vital for securing data at rest and in transit. They are the bedrock of data integrity and confidentiality, shielding sensitive information from prying eyes and potential cyber threats. This is where the magic of transforming data into a secure format occurs, making it an essential battleground for cybersecurity efforts.
However, the Presentation Layer is not without its vulnerabilities. Some of the most insidious security threats stem from weaknesses in the coding practices used to develop applications interacting at this layer. Buffer overflows, SQL injections, and cross-site scripting are prime examples of exploits that can lead to significant security breaches. These vulnerabilities underscore the critical importance of secure coding practices and robust input validation procedures to fend off attackers.
The roles vital to securing the Presentation Layer span a broad spectrum of cybersecurity expertise. Network security analysts play a key role in scrutinizing the data exchange protocols and ensuring that encryption measures are robust and correctly implemented. Developers adhere to a secure development lifecycle, ensuring that code is thoroughly vetted and sanitized before deployment. Lastly, the overarching vigilance of security analysts dedicated to network monitoring and logging forms the backbone of a comprehensive security strategy at this layer.
Ensuring the security of the Presentation Layer is a multifaceted challenge that requires a concerted effort from all parties involved in the development and deployment of network applications. As we gear up for our following discussion on the final layer of the OSI model , the Application Layer, remember that each layer presents unique challenges and opportunities for enhancing our cybersecurity posture. Join us next week as we conclude our exploration of the OSI model.
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Presentation Layer in OSI model
Prerequisite : OSI Model. Introduction : Presentation Layer is the 6th layer in the Open System Interconnection (OSI) model. This layer is also known as Translation layer, as this layer serves as a data translator for the network. The data which this layer receives from the Application Layer is extracted and manipulated here as per the required ...
Presentation Layer: Protocols, Examples, Services
Telnet (Telecommunication Network): Telnet protocol was introduced in 1969, and it offers the command line interface for making communication along with remote device or server. Tox: The Tox protocol is sometimes regarded as part of both the presentation and application layer, and it is used for sending peer-to-peer instant-messaging as well as video calling.
Presentation layer
For example, HyperText Transfer Protocol (HTTP), generally regarded as an application-layer protocol, has presentation-layer aspects such as the ability to identify character encoding for proper conversion, which is then done in the application layer. The presentation layer is the lowest layer at which application programmers consider data ...
Layer 6 Presentation Layer
The presentation layer is the lowest layer at which application programmers consider data structure and presentation, instead of simply sending data in the form of datagrams or packets between hosts. This layer deals with issues of string representation - whether they use the Pascal method (an integer length field followed by the specified ...
Presentation Layer in OSI Model
Protocols of the Presentation layer: Independent Computing Architecture (ICA): It is a presentation layer protocol in the OSI model, which was formed by Citrix Systems. It is used for transferring data from server to client. It is a very thin protocol as it does not require much overhead in order to transmit data from the server over to the client.
The OSI Model
The Session Layer initiates, maintains, and terminates connections between two end-user applications. It responds to requests from the presentation layer and issues requests to the transport layer. OSI Layer 6. Layer 6 is the presentation layer. This layer is responsible for data formatting, such as character encoding and conversions, and data ...
What is presentation layer?
The tool that manages Hypertext Transfer Protocol is an example of a program that loosely adheres to the presentation layer of OSI.Although it's technically considered an application-layer protocol per the TCP/IP model, HTTP includes presentation layer services within it.HTTP works when the requesting device forwards user requests passed to the web browser onto a web server elsewhere in the ...
Presentation layer and Session layer of the OSI model
The presentation layer is the sixth layer of the OSI Reference model. It defines how data and information is transmitted and presented to the user. It translates data and format code in such a way that it is correctly used by the application layer. It identifies the syntaxes that different applications use and formats data using those syntaxes.
The TCP/IP Guide
The presentation layer is the sixth layer of the OSI Reference Model protocol stack, and second from the top. It is different from the other layers in two key respects. First, it has a much more limited and specific function than the other layers; it's actually somewhat easy to describe, hurray! Second, it is used much less often than the other ...
Presentation Layer of OSI Model (Layer-6)
Presentation Layer is the 6th Layer in seven Layer OSI Model. It performs important functions like Data Formatting, Data Representation, Data Encryption/Decryption, Data Compression and De-compression. Important Protocols at Presentation Layer include ASCII, EBCDIC, JPEG, MPEG, GIF, PNG, TIFF, SSL & TLS.
Presentation Layer
Layer 6 OSI Model. An example of a program that loosely adheres to layer 6 of OSI is the tool that manages the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) — although it's technically considered an application-layer protocol per the TCP/IP model. However, HTTP includes presentation layer services within it.
Computer Networks: Protocol Layering and the OSI Model
Protocol layering is a design approach that separates network functions into multiple layers that can perform complex tasks in simpler, manageable segments. Each layer receives specific services from the lower layer and provides specific services to the higher layer after performing certain functions. This is like modulizing functions in ...
A Guide to the Presentation Layer
Understanding the layers of the Open Systems Interconnect (OSI) model can help users conceptualize data communication over a network. Layer 6 in the OSI model - the presentation layer - translates, compresses, and encrypts data across networks. In this article, we'll explain what the presentation layer is, how it works, and its functions and protocols.
Presentation Layer
The presentation layer is layer-6 of the OSI reference model. This layer mainly responds to the service requests from the application layer (that is layer-7) and issues the service requests to layer-6 that is (the session layer). This layer mainly acts as the translator of the network. Another name of the presentation layer is the Syntax layer.
OSI model
This means protocols like XML or ASN.1. You could argue that video/audio codecs are part of the presentation layer Although this is probably heading towards the application layer. ... Presentation Layer The Presentation Layer represents the area that is independent of data representation at the application layer - in general, it represents the ...
Presentation Layer
The presentation layer translates information in a way that the application layer understands. Likewise, this layer translates information from the application layer to the session layer. Some examples of presentation layer protocols are SSL, HTTP/ HTML (agent), FTP (server), AppleTalk Filing Protocol,Telnet, and so on.
Presentation Layer Protocols
This section introduces some of the Presentation Layer protocols on the Internet that are related to the World-Wide Web project. The main WWW protocol, Hypertext Transfer Protocol is described in the The HTTP Protocol. The protocols presented are: Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions. File Transfer Protocol. Network News Transfer Protocol.
The 7 OSI Networking Layers Explained
Data Link Layer. Network Layer. Transport Layer. Session Layer. Presentation Layer. Application Layer. Summary. The Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) networking model defines a conceptual framework for communications between computer systems. The model is an ISO standard which identifies seven fundamental networking layers, from the physical ...
Unveiling the Interpreter: Fortifying the Presentation Layer's Role in
The Presentation Layer, often likened to an adept interpreter in the digital realm, plays a pivotal role in the seamless transmission and reception of data across the network. At its essence, the Presentation Layer is tasked with data translation, encryption, and compression. It ensures that the information sent from the application layer is ...
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Prerequisite : OSI Model. Introduction : Presentation Layer is the 6th layer in the Open System Interconnection (OSI) model. This layer is also known as Translation layer, as this layer serves as a data translator for the network. The data which this layer receives from the Application Layer is extracted and manipulated here as per the required ...
Telnet (Telecommunication Network): Telnet protocol was introduced in 1969, and it offers the command line interface for making communication along with remote device or server. Tox: The Tox protocol is sometimes regarded as part of both the presentation and application layer, and it is used for sending peer-to-peer instant-messaging as well as video calling.
For example, HyperText Transfer Protocol (HTTP), generally regarded as an application-layer protocol, has presentation-layer aspects such as the ability to identify character encoding for proper conversion, which is then done in the application layer. The presentation layer is the lowest layer at which application programmers consider data ...
The presentation layer is the lowest layer at which application programmers consider data structure and presentation, instead of simply sending data in the form of datagrams or packets between hosts. This layer deals with issues of string representation - whether they use the Pascal method (an integer length field followed by the specified ...
Protocols of the Presentation layer: Independent Computing Architecture (ICA): It is a presentation layer protocol in the OSI model, which was formed by Citrix Systems. It is used for transferring data from server to client. It is a very thin protocol as it does not require much overhead in order to transmit data from the server over to the client.
The Session Layer initiates, maintains, and terminates connections between two end-user applications. It responds to requests from the presentation layer and issues requests to the transport layer. OSI Layer 6. Layer 6 is the presentation layer. This layer is responsible for data formatting, such as character encoding and conversions, and data ...
The tool that manages Hypertext Transfer Protocol is an example of a program that loosely adheres to the presentation layer of OSI.Although it's technically considered an application-layer protocol per the TCP/IP model, HTTP includes presentation layer services within it.HTTP works when the requesting device forwards user requests passed to the web browser onto a web server elsewhere in the ...
The presentation layer is the sixth layer of the OSI Reference model. It defines how data and information is transmitted and presented to the user. It translates data and format code in such a way that it is correctly used by the application layer. It identifies the syntaxes that different applications use and formats data using those syntaxes.
The presentation layer is the sixth layer of the OSI Reference Model protocol stack, and second from the top. It is different from the other layers in two key respects. First, it has a much more limited and specific function than the other layers; it's actually somewhat easy to describe, hurray! Second, it is used much less often than the other ...
Presentation Layer is the 6th Layer in seven Layer OSI Model. It performs important functions like Data Formatting, Data Representation, Data Encryption/Decryption, Data Compression and De-compression. Important Protocols at Presentation Layer include ASCII, EBCDIC, JPEG, MPEG, GIF, PNG, TIFF, SSL & TLS.
Layer 6 OSI Model. An example of a program that loosely adheres to layer 6 of OSI is the tool that manages the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) — although it's technically considered an application-layer protocol per the TCP/IP model. However, HTTP includes presentation layer services within it.
Protocol layering is a design approach that separates network functions into multiple layers that can perform complex tasks in simpler, manageable segments. Each layer receives specific services from the lower layer and provides specific services to the higher layer after performing certain functions. This is like modulizing functions in ...
Understanding the layers of the Open Systems Interconnect (OSI) model can help users conceptualize data communication over a network. Layer 6 in the OSI model - the presentation layer - translates, compresses, and encrypts data across networks. In this article, we'll explain what the presentation layer is, how it works, and its functions and protocols.
The presentation layer is layer-6 of the OSI reference model. This layer mainly responds to the service requests from the application layer (that is layer-7) and issues the service requests to layer-6 that is (the session layer). This layer mainly acts as the translator of the network. Another name of the presentation layer is the Syntax layer.
This means protocols like XML or ASN.1. You could argue that video/audio codecs are part of the presentation layer Although this is probably heading towards the application layer. ... Presentation Layer The Presentation Layer represents the area that is independent of data representation at the application layer - in general, it represents the ...
The presentation layer translates information in a way that the application layer understands. Likewise, this layer translates information from the application layer to the session layer. Some examples of presentation layer protocols are SSL, HTTP/ HTML (agent), FTP (server), AppleTalk Filing Protocol,Telnet, and so on.
This section introduces some of the Presentation Layer protocols on the Internet that are related to the World-Wide Web project. The main WWW protocol, Hypertext Transfer Protocol is described in the The HTTP Protocol. The protocols presented are: Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions. File Transfer Protocol. Network News Transfer Protocol.
Data Link Layer. Network Layer. Transport Layer. Session Layer. Presentation Layer. Application Layer. Summary. The Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) networking model defines a conceptual framework for communications between computer systems. The model is an ISO standard which identifies seven fundamental networking layers, from the physical ...
The Presentation Layer, often likened to an adept interpreter in the digital realm, plays a pivotal role in the seamless transmission and reception of data across the network. At its essence, the Presentation Layer is tasked with data translation, encryption, and compression. It ensures that the information sent from the application layer is ...