Open systems interconnection: Its architecture and protocols

This book gives a comprehensive coverage of OSI architecture and the basic principles used in defining OSI services and protocols of each of its seven layers. Emphasized are the fundamental aspects, the motivation behind incorporating a certain functionality in a layer, the use to which it can be put by a higher layer entity, and in many instances, the rationale behind choosing its particular realization and adopting it as part of the protocol standards. In view of the fact that OSI standards run into several thousand pages, the discussion is limited to the significant issues. Optional facilities and protocols that are widely understood are covered only briefly. Intended for professionals in the area of computer networks who wish to gain an in-depth understanding of OSI architecture, services and protocols, the book is also suitable for a course on Computer Networks where the emphasis is on layered architectures and network protocols.