• the role of the data link layer, • Three common error detection and correction methods. • two basic approaches to controlling access to the media, • common sources of error and its prevention, • Several commonly used data link protocols. INTRODUCTION The data link layer sits between the physical layer and the network layer. The data link layer accepts messages from the network layer and controls the hardware that actually transmits them. Both the sender and receiver have to agree on the rules or protocols that govern how their data link layers will communicate with each other. Introduction A data link protocol provides three functions: • Controls when computers transmit (media access control). • Detects and corrects transmission errors (error control). • Identifies the start and end of a message (message delineation). MEDIA ACCESS CONTROL Media access control (MAC) refers to the need to control when devices transmit. MAC becomes important when several computers share ...