ARP (Address Resolution Protocol)

So, this is the protocol that converts IP addresses into MAC addresses so that the data link layer can understand where the data packets need to go.

Fine.

But at what layer of the OSI model does it operate?

I've had a look around the net but can't find a definite answer.

I'm assuming it's either the network or data link.

Or does it work in between those two?

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Comments

OpenSource

From what I can recall, the Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) operates at the Network Layer (3rd Layer) of the Open System Interconnect (OSI) Reference Model...

- Joey

tookep

Cheers, I knew it obviously had to be one of them. Just wanted clarification.

keatron

Well, in actuality, it really operates between layers 3 and 2. Think in terms of the upper part (or Logical Link Control) of Layer 2 and the lower part of Layer 3. In reality IP addresses are logical (LLC) and MAC addresses are said to be physical.

cairtaker

NETWORK LAYER

IP, ICMP, IPX, RARP, ARP, DHCP, BOOTP, BGP, RIP, OSPF

darkuser

this is a nice write-up

http://www.erg.abdn.ac.uk/users/gorry/course/inet-pages/arp.html

tookep

Ok, cheers guys. I guess it's a bit of a controversial protocol as to where it works. Guess this proves why the OSI is a reference model and not a standard.

I'll just think of it working between layers 3 and 2. Makes sense. They should create a sub-layer for it so, us studying it can fit into our model :P