Data Link Control

(D-L-C)

The Data Link Layer in the OSI Reference Model is ultimately responsible for physically passing data from one device to another. Each network interface card connecting to the network has a DLC address or identified (DLCI) that is its unique address. If necessary, the Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) is used to translate a logical address into a DLC address so a device can be accessed (some network protocols use the DLC directly).

IEEE 802 networks (e.g., Ethernet) often call the DLC address a Media Access Control (MAC) address.

More Information

• SDLC Discussion
• HDLC Discussion
• DLC Presentation