!!! Overview
[{$pagename}] is a [Communication Layers] and conceptual division of methods in the layered [architecture] of [protocols] in the [network] stack.


[{$pagename}] is the [protocol] layer that transfers [data] between adjacent [network] nodes in a [Wide Area Network] ([WAN]) or between nodes on the same [Local Area Network] ([LAN]) segment.

Several [Network] [Protocols] defines [{$pagename}] as part of the [Communication Layers] including:
* [OSI-Model]
* [IEEE 802]

[{$pagename}] provides the functional and procedural means to transfer data between network entities and might provide the means to detect and possibly correct errors that may occur in the [Physical Layer].

[{$pagename}] is concerned with local delivery of [frames] between devices on the same [LAN]. Data-link [frames], as these [Protocol Data Units] are called, do not cross the boundaries of a [Local Area Network]. 

Inter-network [routing] and global addressing are higher-layer functions, allowing data-link [protocols] to focus on local delivery, addressing, and media arbitration. This way, the [{$pagename}] is analogous to a neighborhood traffic cop; it endeavors to arbitrate between parties contending for access to a medium, without concern for their ultimate destination. 

When devices attempt to use a medium simultaneously, frame collisions occur. Data-link [protocols] specify how devices detect and recover from such collisions, and may provide mechanisms to reduce or prevent them.

!! [IEEE 802]
[IEEE 802] defines two sub-layers within the [{$pagename}] as:
* [Logical Link Control] Sublayer
* [Media Access Control] Sublayer


!! More Information
There might be more information for this subject on one of the following:
[{ReferringPagesPlugin before='*' after='\n' }]