Which of the following OSI layers establishes, manages, and terminates the connections between the local and remote applications?

Question

Options

• AData Link layer
• BNetwork layer
• CApplication layer
• DSession layer

• A
  2% (1)
• B
  5% (3)
• C
  4% (2)
• D
  89% (51)

Explanation

Session layer (D) is responsible for establishing, managing, and terminating communication sessions between local and remote applications - the three functions literally define what the Session layer does. Think of it as the "meeting organizer" that sets up the call, keeps it running, and hangs up when done.

Why the distractors are wrong:

• A. Data Link handles node-to-node data transfer and framing on the same network segment - it deals with MAC addresses, not application sessions.
• B. Network handles logical addressing (IP) and routing packets across networks - it moves data between networks but has no concept of a "session."
• C. Application is the topmost layer that provides interfaces and protocols directly to end-user applications (HTTP, DNS, SMTP) - it uses sessions but doesn't manage them.

Memory tip: Use the mnemonic "Please Do Not Throw Sausage Pizza Away" (Physical, Data Link, Network, Transport, Session, Presentation, Application) to place Session at layer 5. Then remember the three S's of Session: Start, Sustain, Stop - it opens, maintains, and closes connections.

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