ASL STEM

Definition

In the Open Systems Interconnect (OSI) Reference Model of computer network architecture, the sixth of seven layers, in which the addressed packets are transformed so that they can be physically conveyed at the physical layer. At this layer, protocols govern the detection and resolution of transmission errors, the conversion of data into a form appropriate for the physical layer that is being used, and the regulation of data to avoid bottlenecks. When the data is ready to be sent over the network, it is transferred to the physical layer, where the data is encapsulated by physical-layer protocols.

Source: Pfaffenberger, Bryan. Webster's new world computer dicdtionary. London: Wiley, 2003. Print.