Computer Networks

COMPUTER NETWORKS

TUTORIAL ONE : NETWORK ARCHITECTURE


1. Explain the principles of layering and comment on the advantages and disadvantages of this approach to network design. Within this context, define the terms protocol, interface, service and explain their relationship and differences.

Network software these days is complex and therefore needs to be highly structured. To reduce their design complexity, most networks are organised as a series of layers or levels, each one built upon the one below it. The number of layers, the name, the contents and the functions of each layer varies from network to network.
However in all networks the purpose of each layer is to offer certain services to the higher layer, shielding those layers f...