Flow control takes place at which layer?a.Networkb.applicationc.transportd.data linke.physical

Breakdown of the Problem

To answer the question, we need to determine at which layer of the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model flow control primarily operates.

Relevant Concepts

1. Network Layer: Responsible for data routing, forwarding, and addressing.
2. Transport Layer: Manages end-to-end communication, including flow control mechanisms.
3. Application Layer: Facilitates user interface and application services but does not engage in flow control.
4. Data Link Layer: Handles error detection and correction for frames but is not primarily for flow control.
5. Physical Layer: Focuses on the transmission of raw bits over a physical medium; no flow control.

Analysis and Detail

• Flow Control: This concept refers to techniques that prevent overwhelming a network resource, essentially managing the rate of data transmission between two nodes.
• Transport Layer (Layer 4): Utilizes protocols like TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) to implement flow control techniques, like windowing mechanisms, which manage how much data can be sent before needing an acknowledgment.

Verify and Summarize

Given that flow control operates through protocols rather than the physical possibilities of a network, it is limited to the transport layer and its functions. This is evidenced by TCP's ability to manage data transmission rates through flow-control techniques.

Final Answer

Flow control takes place at the c. transport layer.