Protocol Layer
Protocol layer, also known as network layer, is a type of computer networking protocol that provides essential functions for data transmission and communication. It is responsible for routing the data packets between different computers and networks over the internet. Protocol layers are crucial to the functioning of a distributed system, such as a cryptocurrency network.
In order for two or more nodes (computers) in a distributed system to successfully communicate with each other, they must be able to identify themselves and securely exchange information using some form of agreement called “protocol”. These protocols exist at different levels within the network stack – from physical connections up through application-level communications – but they all share certain fundamental characteristics. The protocol layer consists of several sublayers which have their own specific tasks within this overall process:
• Link Layer: This sublayer manages node-to-node connections on each individual link (or hop across an IP address boundary). It handles negotiation over parameters like packet size, flow control methods and error checking/recovery algorithms used by both sides in order to ensure reliable connection setup and teardowns.
• Network Layer: This sublayer routes messages between networks based on source & destination addresses provided by higher level applications or services running atop it . In addition to basic forwarding functionality , it can also provide Quality Of Service (QoS) features such as congestion avoidance , traffic prioritization etc..
• Transport Layer : This sublayer provides end-to-end communication mechanisms necessary for successful delivery of data packets between nodes . Common transport protocols include TCP , UDP , SCTP etc..
• Application Level Protocols : These protocols allow applications running atop them access various services from remote machines including emailing files or webpages etc.. Examples include HTTP(S), FTP , SMTP etc ..
Protocol layers play an important role in ensuring secure communication across cryptocurrency networks since every transaction needs to be authenticated before being accepted into the blockchain ledger that keeps track of balances & transactions records associated with digital currency systems . Cryptocurrency developers often create custom protocols designed specifically around their chosen consensus algorithm so as to maximize security & efficiency while minimizing resource consumption when transacting large volumes of funds across multiple computers simultaneously
