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Application Layer

The seventh and highest layer of the OSI model, providing network services directly to end-user applications.

Categorynetwork

Overview

The Application Layer (Layer 7) is the layer closest to the user. It provides the interface between the software application and the underlying network.

Key Functions

  • Resource Sharing: Allowing applications to access network resources.
  • Remote File Access: Accessing files on other systems.
  • Network Management: Monitoring and controlling network performance.

Common Protocols

  • HTTP/HTTPS: For web browsing.
  • FTP: For file transfers.
  • SMTP/IMAP/POP3: For email.
  • DNS: For domain name resolution.

Related Terms

OSI Model