Solution oriented
Problem solving skills
Last
Offers CCNA certification, .... and excellent
time management abilities.
Highly professional attitude
Ability to perform and work well in team
environments.
Results driven
Client relations skills
Project Management
Process improvement
Customer service
Performance driven
Windows Server Adminstration
Desktop Support
Last
Demonstrates excellent communication skills,
and ....., making a valuable addition to any IT
team.
Adept at Collaborating with Cross-functional
teams, continuously improving processes
and ....
Last
Certied in CCNA ROUTING AND SWITCHING.
Last/
Trained in Computer Networking, ....and...
/
Certified Networking Associate with well
develoed networking abilities. Q
Seeking an IT support internship position with
company where my practical knowledge will
used for the betterment of your company or
organization and also improve my competence.
(and also enable my career growth)
Proactive ....... with a unique blend of ......skills.
Proactive.... specializing in computer
networking, security and databases.
Adept at Collaborating with diverse Cross-
functional teams on technical projects to
design IT solutions and drive continuous
improvement.
With passion for problem solving and a drive
Information Technology internship
Dear Recruitment Team.
Dear Hiring Team.
Life is beautiful, wonderful, glorious embrace it
and it. Live each day as if it was your last.
Keep it up, don't anything bring you down
I will do anything humanly possible to save
you.
What you do today you will pay for a big time
tomorrow.
You have the narrow road and you have the
wide road so take your pick wisely. I don't want
see you go on a path you will regret.
No more: helplessness, pain, sorrows, tears,
homelessness, loneliness,
You raise me up by Westlife
Soul provider by Romain Virgo
Wait for me by Johnny Drille
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CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Cybersecurity Internships:
Where to Find & How to Get
CYBRARY STAFF
SHARE
Although there's a skills shortage in
cybersecurity, employers won't take just
anybody, even for entry-level roles. You'll need
to demonstrate a certain level of skill and
experience to stand a chance. That's why it's
crucial to take advantage of cybersecurity
internships.
Here, we’ll discuss everything you need to
know about cybersecurity internships and how
to get one.
What is a Cybersecurity
Internship, and How Can It
Benefit You?
A cybersecurity internship offers an opportunity
to gain real-world cybersecurity experience in
an established firm. It introduces you to the
work environment and the day-to-day
responsibilities of a cybersecurity professional.
You’ll deal with real threats trying to access,
change, or destroy confidential company
resources.
As an aspiring cybersecurity professional, you
need the skills, certifications, and experience to
convince potential employers. While you can
level up your skills with online courses and
earn certificates, experience may be tricky to
come by.
This makes cybersecurity internships one of
the best decisions if you’re new to the industry.
The Benefits of Cybersecurity
Internships
Whether you’re a recent graduate or still
training, cybersecurity internships help you
accumulate job experience quickly. Interning
reinforces your classroom knowledge with
hands-on experience, strengthens your
resume, and gives you a competitive
advantage.
In addition, cybersecurity internships offer a
chance to build valuable networks in the
industry. This is such a competitive
field, and it's not just about what you know; it's
also about who you know.
Interns can establish connections with
professionals, other participants, and mentors.
This helps build reliable, professional
connections for the future.
A cybersecurity internship can help you secure
a permanent role in the same organization.
Companies will prefer to hire their best interns
rather than onboarding new employees.
By the end of your internship, you'll already be
familiar with the company’s cybersecurity
policies and procedures. As such, your
cybersecurity internship can turn into a job
offer if you successfully prove your skills,
knowledge, and abilities.
But what can you do to prove your worth during
an internship? Let’s take a look at what your
day-to-day responsibilities will look like.
Responsibilities of a
Cybersecurity Intern
A cybersecurity intern’s duties will depend on
the type of internship, their skillset,
cybersecurity specialization, and the
organization. Here are some everyday
responsibilities an intern should expect:
Detecting vulnerabilities in network security.
Minor incident response and handling.
Helping out with tools such as SIEM, Netflow,
IPS, DLP, and email gateway protection.
Assisting with penetration testing and
vulnerability assessments.
Testing web application security and creating
reports on findings.
Researching cybersecurity threats.
Record and track security incidents such as
email threats, copyright violations, abuse
reports, and compromised accounts.
Assisting digital forensics analysis efforts and
fact gathering.
Debugging malicious software.
Monitoring inbound security data.
Providing first-level compliance monitoring.
Any other duties assigned.
Understanding what you would be expected to
do during an internship will help you audit your
current skillset and find gaps you need to fill.
In the following section, you’ll learn the skills
required to perform the duties above.
Skills Needed to Secure a
Cybersecurity Internship
Generally, an internship transforms classroom
knowledge into practical experience. It’s not a
place to learn from scratch, so you’ll need to
bring some skills on board.
Before applying for cybersecurity internships,
having the required skills and knowledge to
perform potential duties is vital.
Although technical skills are essential,
employers also prioritize interpersonal skills
like communication and teamwork. This is
because cybersecurity requires seamless
collaboration between multiple people and
departments.
We’ve compiled a list of skills from real
cybersecurity internship postings. This will
provide insights into what a potential employer
will expect you to bring.
In addition, it’s a good idea to use the following
skills as resume keywords when applying for a
cybersecurity internship. Since these are the
most in-demand skills, your application will
rank well with companies using applicant
tracking software.
Technical Skills
Programming Languages, e.g., Python, Java,
and PHP
A working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel,
Visio, TCP/IP, and basic web design.
Vulnerability Assessment
Operating systems, e.g., Linux
Documentation
Compliance
Risk analysis and management
Troubleshooting
Non-Technical Skills
Teamwork and Collaboration
Communication
Willingness to learn
Innovation
Detail oriented
Critical thinking
If you don’t have any of the technical skills
above, don’t worry. Cybrary provides
free entry-level cybersecurity
training that teaches you foundational skills
needed during an internship. This course is
taught by an industry leader and helps you
prepare for entry-level positions, including an
internship. You’ll learn the fundamentals of
computer networking, security controls,
incident response, and compliance.
Types of Cybersecurity
Internships
Each cybersecurity internship is unique. So,
when looking for an internship, first understand
the type you prefer. Let’s look at your options:
Paid Cybersecurity Internships
Paid internship programs are becoming
increasingly popular, especially in information
technology and cybersecurity.
Depending on the employer, interns may earn
less than entry-level cybersecurity
professionals or the same.
Paid internships frequently have a set end date
and offer little in the way of additional benefits
or rewards beyond the chance to gain
beneficial work experience. If you're still in
school, a paid internship provides additional
income while you study.
Unpaid Cybersecurity Internships
As the name suggests, unpaid internships
don’t offer
monetary rewards. The only purpose is to
prepare you for the workforce with hands-on
training.
Most internships, such as summer, are unpaid.
As a budding cybersecurity professional,
experience should be the priority. Although
some unpaid internships have no
compensation, they usually have many
opportunities to gain valuable skills and
experience.
Cybersecurity Externship
An externship means shadowing a
cybersecurity expert at work. The intern follows
the cybersecurity professional throughout the
day, assisting them with tasks and learning
about the job.
Externships are more focused on a
cybersecurity career path. If you’ve chosen
cybersecurity specialization, this could be an
excellent choice to pursue. Externship
timeframes are not as clearly defined as
internship timeframes, which typically last for
an entire season. Students may spend a single
day or several months observing the expert.
Cybersecurity Internship for
Credits
Money isn't the only reward you can get from
an internship. Some colleges may allow
students to earn credits by completing an
internship.
The requirements for internships to earn
credits will vary between schools. These
internships usually take place
during the summer when there are no classes.
Note that internships for credits can also be
paid.
How to Secure the Right
Cybersecurity Internship
Applying for an internship is like applying for a
job. Companies won’t give it out just because
you asked. You must stand out among many
candidates to secure the right cybersecurity
internship.
Employers will prioritize excellent grades and
extracurricular activities associated with
cybersecurity if you're a student.
Non-students will also need to demonstrate
their skills and suitability for the internship.
Here are steps to follow to secure a
cybersecurity internship:
1. Choose a Preferred Internship Pathway
There are many cybersecurity positions
available in the public and private sectors. So,
choosing a career path before applying for
internships is essential.
Working in government agencies will allow you
to tackle terrorist activities, gather intelligence
on espionage, and protect against foreign
sabotage.
On the other hand, the private sector will offer
the opportunity to fight threats peculiar to the
organization.
Students may speak with their advisor about
opportunities suited to their preferred
pathways.
Before applying, you should also decide
whether you want a remote or on-site
internship.
2. Ensure You Meet Intern Skills
Requirements
Most cybersecurity internships don’t require
experience or certifications. But there are
common skills requirements that we've
mentioned above. Make sure you meet them or
the specific requirements for the internship you
plan to apply for.
Some organizations, especially government
agencies, may require you to be a US citizen.
As a student, you should also ensure your
grades, credentials, degree program, and
schedule align with the company’s
requirements.
3. Prepare Your Resume
Some internships require students to submit a
resume and cover letter. Since it's unlikely that
you will have many experiences, your resume
should highlight your cybersecurity education
and accomplishments.
This could include contributions to open-source
projects, cybersecurity contests or bug bounty,
volunteer work, skills, certifications earned,
personal projects, and other extracurricular
activities.
Don’t forget to include any other roles where
you worked with
computers, software, or similar tools. Write
about your career goals and make sure they
align with the program.
4. Find Cybersecurity Internship
Opportunities
Armed with a completed resume and cover
letter, it’s time to apply for cybersecurity
internships. A strong reference, such as a
professor or former employer, can improve
your opportunities. Leverage professional sites
like LinkedIn when looking for an internship.
There are many places to find cybersecurity
internships. We’ll mention them in the following
paragraphs.
Where to Find the Right
Cybersecurity Internship
Let's look at where you can find the right
cybersecurity internship, depending on your
needs.
Government Cybersecurity Internships
Government agencies typically have numerous
cybersecurity and information technology
internship opportunities. Some government-
sponsored internship programs in the United
States include:
Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Student
Programs: This paid CIA cybersecurity
internship is open to graduates and
undergraduates. Participants will work
alongside industry experts and gain real-world
experience.
The National Security Agency (NSA)
Cooperative
Education Program: The NSA offers
development programs for people already
employed to gain the skills necessary for a
career switch and internships for high school
and college students. This is a paid
opportunity, and the length depends on the
program.
Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency
(CISA) Internship: CISA’s paid internships are
open to students in accredited programs. It
covers students in high school to graduate
level, including recent graduates. Interns will
tour labs, meet senior management, and
attend local conferences.
Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
Internship: Held in Washington DC, this 10-
week cybersecurity internship places
undergraduates and graduates interested in
cybersecurity alongside other industry
professionals in the DHS.
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
Cybersecurity Intern Program: The FBI’s
cybersecurity intern program is a 10-week paid
program open to current undergraduates and
graduate students.
Private Cybersecurity Internships
If you prefer to work in non-government
agencies, here are some private organizations
with reputable internship opportunities.
IBM Security Services Specialist Internships:
IBM’s programs don’t require you to have a
degree. You can
become a cybersecurity intern or apprentice by
applying to one of their entry-level programs.
Palo Alto Networks: The 12-week internship
program trains the next generation of
cybersecurity talent. Interns will solve
challenging projects and grow their
professional network in a fast-paced
environment.
Meta: Formerly Facebook, Meta provides
internship opportunities for aspiring
cybersecurity and IT professionals. Interns will
be paired with a mentor and contribute to real-
world projects.
There are many more private companies with
internship programs. Platforms like Indeed,
ZipRecruiter, and LinkedIn are excellent when
looking for cybersecurity internships.
The work doesn’t end when you get in the
door. You’re there to gain valuable industry
experience. Whether or not it’s a paid position,
ensure you get the best on-the-job experience
that will help you down the way. Remember to
build relationships and create a reliable
network of professionals.
Conclusion
Cybersecurity internships help you gain
practical experience, build networks, and
accelerate your chances of securing a
permanent position. But you need the right skill
set to be chosen in the first place.
Cybrary’s accessible and affordable platform is
trusted by over 3 million other cybersecurity
professionals. It provides a
guided pathway to level up your cybersecurity
skills, certification preparation to validate your
skills, and hands-on labs to apply theoretical
knowledge. Start learning for free on Cybrary.
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Join Tata’s Cybersecurity
Internship for Free in 2024
Courses, Latest Notification, Science and
Tech /
By Admin
Cybersecurity is one of the most in-demand
and lucrative fields in the world today. With the
increasing threats and challenges posed by
hackers, cybercriminals, and malicious actors,
there is a need for skilled and competent
professionals who can protect and defend the
digital assets and infrastructure of various
organizations and individuals.
If you are interested in pursuing a career in
cybersecurity, or want to enhance your existing
skills and knowledge in this domain, then you
should not miss the opportunity to join Tata’s
cybersecurity internship for free in 2024. This is
a unique and comprehensive program that will
provide you with the theoretical and practical
training, guidance, and exposure that you need
to become a successful cybersecurity expert.
In this article, we will tell you everything you
need to know about this internship, such as:
What is Tata’s cybersecurity internship and why
is it
important?
Who can apply and what are the benefits of
joining?
How to register and what are the deadlines?
What are the topics and skills covered in the
internship?
Who are the TCS experts and mentors who will
guide you?
How will the training be delivered and
assessed?
What are the real-world projects and
challenges that you will work on?
How will you showcase your work and get
feedback?
What are the certificates and rewards that you
will earn?
How will this internship help you advance your
career in cybersecurity?
What are the next steps and resources to
continue learning?
How to contact Tata and TCS for any queries
or support?
Let’s get started!
What would you like to read? Choose
Introduction
What is Tata’s cybersecurity
internship and why is it important?
Tata’s cybersecurity internship is a 12-week
online program that is designed to provide you
with the essential knowledge and skills in the
field of cybersecurity. It is offered by Tata
Consultancy Services (TCS), which is one of
the leading IT services and consulting
companies in the world, and a part of the Tata
Group, which is one of the largest and most
respected business conglomerates in India.
The internship is aimed at creating a pool of
talented and qualified cybersecurity
professionals who can meet the current and
future demands of the industry and society. It is
also a way of fulfilling Tata’s vision of
empowering and enabling the youth of India
and the world to achieve their full potential and
contribute to the nation’s growth and
development.
The internship is important because it will help
you to:
Learn the fundamentals and advanced
concepts of cybersecurity, such as
cryptography, network security, web security,
cloud security, mobile security, IoT security,
ethical hacking, digital forensics, cyber laws,
and more.
Gain hands-on experience and exposure to the
real-world scenarios and challenges faced by
the cybersecurity experts and practitioners in
various domains and sectors, such as banking,
healthcare, education, government, retail, etc.
Develop and enhance your technical,
analytical, problem-solving, communication,
and teamwork skills that are essential for a
successful career in cybersecurity.
Interact and network with the TCS experts and
mentors who have years of experience and
expertise in the field of cybersecurity, and who
will guide you throughout the internship and
beyond.
Earn valuable certificates and rewards that will
boost your resume and portfolio, and increase
your chances of getting hired by the top
employers and organizations in the
cybersecurity domain.
Who can apply and what are the
benefits of joining?
The internship is open to anyone who has a
passion and interest in learning and exploring
the field of cybersecurity. You do not need to
have any prior knowledge or experience in
cybersecurity to join the internship. However,
you should have a basic understanding of
computer science, mathematics, and logic, and
be willing to learn and work hard.
The benefits of joining the internship are:
You will get access to the high-quality and
updated curriculum and content that is curated
and delivered by the TCS experts and mentors,
who are the best in the industry and academia.
You will get to learn at your own pace and
convenience, as the internship is completely
online and flexible. You can access the course
materials, videos, quizzes, assignments, and
projects anytime and anywhere, as long as you
have a stable internet connection and a
compatible device.
You will get to work on the real-world projects
and challenges that are relevant and applicable
to the current and emerging trends and
technologies in the field of cybersecurity. You
will also get to use the latest tools and
platforms that are used by the professionals
and practitioners in the industry.
You will get to showcase your work and get
feedback from the TCS experts and mentors,
who will evaluate your performance and
progress, and provide you with constructive
and personalized suggestions and tips to
improve your skills and knowledge.
You will get to earn the certificates and rewards
that will recognize and validate your learning
and achievements in the internship. You will
also get to add them to your resume and
portfolio, and share them with your potential
employers and recruiters.
You will get to join the Tata’s cybersecurity
community, which is a network of like-minded
and enthusiastic learners and experts who
share their insights, experiences, and
opportunities in the field of cybersecurity. You
will also get to participate in the events,
webinars, workshops, and competitions that
are organized by the community, and enhance
your learning and exposure.
You will get to avail the career guidance and
support that is provided by the TCS experts
and mentors, who will help you to prepare for
the interviews, tests, and assessments that are
conducted by the employers and organizations
in the cybersecurity domain. You will also get to
access the job opportunities and referrals that
are offered by the TCS and its partners, and
increase your chances of getting hired.
How to register and what are the
deadlines?
The registration process for the internship is
simple and easy. You just need to follow these
steps:
Visit the official website of the internship, which
is https://www.tcs.com/careers/india/internship.
Click on the “Apply Now” button, and fill in the
online application form with your personal and
academic details, such as your name, email,
phone number, college, degree, etc.
Upload your resume and a passport-sized
photo, and submit the application form.
Wait for the confirmation email from the TCS
team, which will inform you about the status of
your application and the next steps.
The deadlines for the registration and the
internship are as follows:
The registration for the internship will start
on February 1, 2024, and will end
on February 28, 2024.
The internship will start on March 15, 2024,
and will end on June 15, 2024.
You should register for the internship as soon
as possible, as the seats are limited and the
applications are accepted on a first-come, first-
served basis.
Curriculum and Training
What are the topics and skills
covered in the internship?
The internship covers a wide range of topics
and skills that are essential and relevant for the
field of cybersecurity. The curriculum is divided
into four modules, each consisting of several
lessons, quizzes, assignments, and projects.
The modules are:
Module 1: Fundamentals of Cybersecurity
This module will introduce you to the basics
and core concepts of cybersecurity, such as
the definition, scope, objectives, principles, and
challenges of cybersecurity. You will also learn
about the various types and sources of cyber
threats and attacks, such as malware,
phishing, ransomware, denial-of-service, etc.,
and the common methods and techniques
used by the attackers, such as social
engineering, brute force, password cracking,
etc. You will also learn about the basic
terminologies and concepts of cryptography,
such as encryption, decryption, keys,
algorithms, etc., and the common types and
applications of cryptography, such as
symmetric, asymmetric, hash, digital signature,
etc. You will also learn about the basic
concepts and components of network security,
such as the OSI model, TCP/IP, protocols,
ports, firewalls, etc., and the common tools and
techniques used for network security, such as
scanning, sniffing, spoofing, etc.
Module 2: Web and Cloud Security
This module will teach you about the concepts
and aspects of web security, such as the web
architecture, web protocols, web vulnerabilities,
web attacks, web defenses, etc. You will also
learn about the concepts and aspects of cloud
security, such as the cloud models, cloud
services, cloud risks, cloud attacks, cloud
controls, etc. You will also learn about the
common tools and platforms used for web and
cloud security,
such as OWASP, Burp Suite, Nmap,
Metasploit, AWS, Azure, etc.
Module 3: Mobile and IoT Security
This module will teach you about the concepts
and aspects of mobile security, such as the
mobile architecture, mobile platforms, mobile
applications, mobile vulnerabilities, mobile
attacks, mobile defenses, etc. You will also
learn about the concepts and aspects of IoT
security, such as the IoT architecture, IoT
devices, IoT protocols, IoT vulnerabilities, IoT
attacks, IoT defenses, etc. You will also learn
about the common tools and platforms used for
mobile and IoT security, such as Android
Studio, Xcode, Frida, Drozer, MQTT, CoAP,
etc.
Module 4: Ethical Hacking and Digital
Forensics
This module will teach you about the concepts
and aspects of ethical hacking, such as the
definition, scope, ethics, phases, and tools of
ethical hacking. You will also learn about the
concepts and aspects of digital forensics, such
as the definition, scope, methods, and tools of
digital forensics. You will also learn about the
common types and applications of digital
forensics, such as disk forensics, memory
forensics, network forensics, malware
forensics, etc.
Projects and Certificates
What are the real-world projects
and challenges that you will work
on?
The internship will provide you with the
opportunity to work on the real-world projects
and challenges that are based on the topics
and skills that you have learned in the
modules. The projects and challenges will
simulate the scenarios and situations that are
faced by the cybersecurity experts and
practitioners in various domains and sectors.
You will also get to use the latest tools and
platforms that are used by the professionals
and practitioners in the industry.
Some of the examples of the projects and
challenges that you will work on are:
Project 1: Cryptanalysis
In this project, you will apply your knowledge
and skills of cryptography to analyze and break
various types of encryption schemes and
algorithms, such as Caesar cipher, Vigenere
cipher, RSA, AES, etc. You will also learn how
to use tools such as Cryptool, CrypTool-Online,
etc. to perform cryptanalysis.
Project 2: Web Application Penetration Testing
In this project, you will apply your knowledge
and skills of web security to perform
penetration testing on a vulnerable web
application, such as DVWA, WebGoat, etc. You
will also learn how to use tools such as
OWASP
ZAP, Burp Suite, Nmap, Metasploit, etc. to
perform web application penetration testing.
Project 3: Cloud Security Assessment
In this project, you will apply your knowledge
and skills of cloud security to perform security
assessment on a cloud service provider, such
as AWS, Azure, etc. You will also learn how to
use tools such as CloudMapper, ScoutSuite,
CloudSploit, etc. to perform cloud security
assessment.
Project 4: Mobile Application Reverse
Engineering
In this project, you will apply your knowledge
and skills of mobile security to perform reverse
engineering on a mobile application, such as
WhatsApp, Instagram, etc. You will also learn
how to use tools such as APKTool, dex2jar, JD-
GUI, Frida, Drozer, etc. to perform mobile
application reverse engineering.
Project 5: IoT Device Hacking
In this project, you will apply your knowledge
and skills of IoT security to perform hacking on
an IoT device, such as a smart bulb, a smart
lock, a smart camera, etc. You will also learn
how to use tools such as Shodan, Nmap,
MQTT.fx, CoAPthon, etc. to perform IoT device
hacking.
Challenge 1: Capture the Flag
In this challenge, you will apply your
knowledge and skills of ethical hacking to
participate in a capture the flag (CTF)
competition, which is a gamified way of testing
your cybersecurity skills. You will also learn
how to use tools such as Kali Linux, Wireshark,
Hydra, John the Ripper, etc. to participate in a
CTF competition.
Challenge 2: Digital Forensics Investigation
In this challenge, you will apply your
knowledge and skills of digital forensics to
conduct a digital forensics investigation, which
is a process of collecting, preserving,
analyzing, and presenting digital evidence. You
will also learn how to use tools such as
Autopsy, FTK Imager, Volatility, Wireshark, etc.
to conduct a digital forensics investigation.
How will you showcase your work
and get feedback?
The internship will provide you with the
platform and opportunity to showcase your
work and get feedback from the TCS experts
and mentors, who will evaluate your
performance and progress, and provide you
with constructive and personalized suggestions
and tips to improve your skills and knowledge.
You will showcase your work and get feedback
in the following ways:
You will submit your projects and challenges on
the
online portal of the internship, where the TCS
experts and mentors will review and grade
them, and provide you with the feedback and
comments.
You will present your projects and challenges
on the online sessions of the internship, where
the TCS experts and mentors will give you the
feedback and suggestions, and also answer
your queries and doubts.
You will share your projects and challenges on
the online community of the internship, where
the TCS experts and mentors, as well as your
fellow interns, will give you the feedback and
appreciation, and also exchange their ideas
and experiences.
What are the certificates and
rewards that you will earn?
The internship will provide you with the
certificates and rewards that will recognize and
validate your learning and achievements in the
internship. You will also get to add them to your
resume and portfolio, and share them with your
potential employers and recruiters.
You will earn the certificates and rewards in the
following ways:
You will earn the certificate of completion for
the internship, which will certify that you have
successfully completed the 12-week online
program on
cybersecurity, and have acquired the essential
knowledge and skills in the field of
cybersecurity.
You will earn the certificate of excellence for
the internship, which will certify that you have
performed exceptionally well in the projects
and challenges, and have demonstrated the
advanced knowledge and skills in the field of
cybersecurity.
You will earn the certificate of merit for the
internship, which will certify that you have
participated actively and enthusiastically in the
events, webinars, workshops, and
competitions, and have contributed to the
learning and growth of the internship
community.
You will earn the rewards and incentives for the
internship, which will include the cash prizes,
vouchers, coupons, merchandise, etc., that will
be given to the top performers and participants
in the projects, challenges, events, webinars,
workshops, and competitions.
Conclusion
How will this internship help you
advance your career in
cybersecurity?
The internship will help you advance your
career in cybersecurity in the following ways:
It will provide you with the theoretical and
practical training, guidance, and exposure that
you need to
become a successful cybersecurity expert.
It will help you to develop and enhance your
technical, analytical, problem-solving,
communication, and teamwork skills that are
essential for a successful career in
cybersecurity.
It will help you to build and showcase your
resume and portfolio, and increase your
chances of getting hired by the top employers
and organizations in the cybersecurity domain.
It will help you to join and network with the
Tata’s cybersecurity community, which is a
network of like-minded and enthusiastic
learners and experts who share their insights,
experiences, and opportunities in the field of
cybersecurity.
It will help you to avail the career guidance and
support that is provided by the TCS experts
and mentors, who will help you to prepare for
the interviews, tests, and assessments that are
conducted by the employers and organizations
in the cybersecurity domain.
It will help you to access the job opportunities
and referrals that are offered by the TCS and
its partners, and increase your chances of
getting hired.
What are the next steps and
resources to continue learning?
The internship will provide you with the next
steps and resources to continue learning and
exploring the field of cybersecurity. You can
follow these steps and resources to further
enhance your skills and knowledge in the field
of cybersecurity:
You can enroll in the advanced courses and
certifications on cybersecurity that are offered
by the TCS and its partners, such as the TCS
iON Digital Learning Hub, the TCS iON
ProCert, the TCS iON Career Edge, etc. These
courses and certifications will provide you with
the in-depth and specialized knowledge and
skills in the various domains and areas of
cybersecurity, such as cyber defense, cyber
offense, cyber governance, cyber resilience,
etc.
You can participate in the online and offline
events and competitions on cybersecurity that
are organized by the TCS and its partners,
such as the TCS CodeVita, the TCS
HackQuest, the TCS Cybersecurity Challenge,
etc. These events and competitions will provide
you with the opportunity to test and showcase
your cybersecurity skills, and also win exciting
prizes and rewards.
You can join and follow the online and offline
communities and platforms on cybersecurity
that are created and curated by the TCS and
its partners, such as the TCS Cybersecurity
Community, the TCS Cybersecurity Blog, the
TCS Cybersecurity Podcast, the TCS
Cybersecurity YouTube Channel, etc. These
communities and platforms will provide you
with the
latest news, updates, trends, and best
practices on cybersecurity, and also enable
you to interact and network with the
cybersecurity experts and enthusiasts.
You can read and watch the books and videos
on cybersecurity that are recommended by the
TCS and its partners, such as the
Cybersecurity Essentials by Charles P.
Pfleeger, Shari Lawrence Pfleeger, and
Jonathan Margulies, the Hacking: The Art of
Exploitation by Jon Erickson, the The Art of
Deception by Kevin D. Mitnick and William L.
Simon, the The Hacker Playbook by Peter Kim,
the Mr. Robot by Sam Esmail, etc. These
books and videos will provide you with the
comprehensive and practical knowledge and
skills on cybersecurity, and also inspire and
motivate you to pursue your passion and
interest in cybersecurity.
How to contact Tata and TCS for
any queries or support?
The internship will provide you with the contact
details and support channels of Tata and TCS
for any queries or support that you may have
regarding the internship or the field of
cybersecurity. You can contact and reach out to
Tata and TCS in the following ways:
You can email your queries or feedback to the
TCS team at cybersecurity-
[email protected], and they will respond to
you within 24 hours.
You can call or text your queries or feedback to
the TCS
team at +91-22-6778-9999, and they will
respond to you as soon as possible.
You can visit the official website of the
internship, which
is https://www.tcs.com/careers/india/internship,
and check the FAQ section, which has the
answers to the most common and frequently
asked questions about the internship.
You can also follow the social media handles of
the TCS and its partners, such as the TCS
Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, etc.,
and get the latest updates and information
about the internship and the field of
cybersecurity.
We hope that this article has given you a clear
and comprehensive overview of the Tata’s
cybersecurity internship for free in 2024, and
has motivated and encouraged you to join and
benefit from this amazing and exciting
opportunity. If you have any queries or
feedback, please feel free to contact us
anytime. We look forward to hearing from you
and seeing you in the internship. Thank you
and happy learning! 😊
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Network Layer
The Network Layer is the third layer of the OSI
model.
It handles the service requests from the
transport layer and further forwards the service
request to the data link layer.
The network layer translates the logical
addresses into physical addresses
It determines the route from the source to the
destination and also manages the traffic
problems such as switching, routing and
controls the congestion of data packets.
The main role of the network layer is to move
the packets from sending host to the receiving
host.
The main functions performed by
the network layer are:
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Routing: When a packet reaches the router's
input link, the router will move the packets to
the router's output link. For example, a packet
from S1 to R1 must be forwarded to the next
router on the path to S2.
Logical Addressing: The data link layer
implements the physical addressing and
network layer implements the logical
addressing. Logical addressing is also used to
distinguish between source and destination
system. The network layer adds a header to
the packet which includes the logical
addresses of both the sender and the receiver.
Internetworking: This is the main role of the
network layer that it provides the logical
connection between different types of
networks.
Fragmentation: The fragmentation is a
process of breaking the packets into the
smallest individual data units that travel
through different networks.
Forwarding & Routing
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In Network layer, a router is used to forward
the packets. Every router has a forwarding
table. A router forwards a packet by examining
a packet's header field and then using the
header field value to index into the forwarding
table. The value stored in the forwarding table
corresponding to the header field value
indicates the router's outgoing interface link to
which the packet is to be forwarded.
For example, the router with a header field
value of 0111 arrives at a router, and then
router indexes this header value into the
forwarding table that determines the output link
interface is 2. The router forwards the packet to
the interface 2. The routing algorithm
determines the values that are inserted in the
forwarding table. The routing algorithm can be
centralized or decentralized.
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Services Provided by the Network
Layer
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Guaranteed delivery: This layer provides the
service which guarantees that the packet will
arrive at its destination.
Guaranteed delivery with bounded
delay: This service guarantees that the packet
will be delivered within a specified host-to-host
delay bound.
In-Order packets: This service ensures that
the packet arrives at the destination in the
order in which they are sent.
Guaranteed max jitter: This service ensures
that the amount of time taken between two
successive transmissions at the sender is
equal to the time between their receipt at the
destination.
Security services: The network layer provides
security by using a session key between the
source and destination host. The network layer
in the source host
encrypts the payloads of datagrams being sent
to the destination host. The network layer in
the destination host would then decrypt the
payload. In such a way, the network layer
maintains the data integrity and source
authentication services.
Next TopicNetwork Addressing
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Network Layer Services-
Packetizing, Routing and
Forwarding
Pre-Requisite: OSI Model
The network Layer is the third layer in the OSI
model of computer networks. Its main function
is to transfer network packets from the source
to the destination. It is involved both the source
host and the destination host. At the source, it
accepts a packet from the transport layer,
encapsulates it in a datagram, and then
delivers the packet to the data link layer so that
it can further be sent to the receiver. At the
destination, the datagram is decapsulated, and
the packet is extracted and delivered to the
corresponding transport layer.
Features of Network Layer
The main responsibility of the Network layer is
to carry the data packets from the source to the
destination without changing or using them.
If the packets are too large for delivery, they
are fragmented i.e., broken down into smaller
packets.
It decides the route to be taken by the packets
to travel from the source to the destination
among the multiple routes available in a
network (also called routing).
The source and destination addresses are
added to the data packets inside the network
layer.
Services Offered by Network
Layer
The services which are offered by the network
layer protocol are as follows:
Packetizing
Routing
Forwarding
1. Packetizing
The process of encapsulating the data
received from the upper layers of the network
(also called payload) in a network layer packet
at the source and decapsulating the
payload from the network layer packet at the
destination is known as packetizing.
The source host adds a header that contains
the source and destination address and some
other relevant information required by the
network layer protocol to the payload received
from the upper layer protocol and delivers the
packet to the data link layer.
The destination host receives the network layer
packet from its data link layer, decapsulates
the packet, and delivers the payload to the
corresponding upper layer protocol. The
routers in the path are not allowed to change
either the source or the destination address.
The routers in the path are not allowed to
decapsulate the packets they receive unless
they need to be fragmented.
Packetizing
2. Routing
Routing is the process of moving data from one
device to another device. These are two other
services offered by the network layer. In a
network, there are a number of routes
available from the source to the destination.
The network layer specifies some strategies
which find out the best possible route. This
process is referred to as routing. There are a
number of routing protocols that are used in
this process and they should be run to help the
routers coordinate with each other and help in
establishing communication throughout the
network.
Routing
3. Forwarding
Forwarding is simply defined as the action
applied by each router when a packet arrives
at one of its interfaces. When a router receives
a packet from one of its attached networks, it
needs to forward the packet to another
attached network (unicast routing) or to some
attached networks (in the case of multicast
routing). Routers are used on the network for
forwarding a packet from the local network to
the remote network. So, the process of routing
involves packet forwarding from an entry
interface out to an exit interface.
Forwarding
Difference between Routing and
Forwarding
Routing
Forwarding
Routing is the process of moving data from one
device to another device.Forwarding is simply
defined as the action applied by each router
when a packet arrives at one of its
interfaces.Operates on the Network
Layer.Operates on the Network Layer.Work is
based on Forwarding Table.Checks the
forwarding table and work according to
that.Works on protocols like Routing
Information Protocol (RIP) for Routing.Works
on protocols like UDP Encapsulating Security
Payloads
Other Services Expected from
Network Layer
Error Control
Flow Control
Congestion Control
1. Error Control
Although it can be implemented in the network
layer, it is usually not preferred because the
data packet in a network layer may be
fragmented at each router, which makes error-
checking inefficient in the network layer.
2. Flow Control
It regulates the amount of data a source can
send without overloading the receiver. If the
source produces data at a very faster rate than
the receiver can consume it, the receiver will
be overloaded with data. To control the flow of
data, the receiver should send feedback to the
sender to inform the latter that it is overloaded
with data.
There is a lack of flow control in the design of
the network layer. It does not directly provide
any flow control. The datagrams are sent by
the sender when they are ready, without any
attention to the readiness of the receiver.
3. Congestion Control
Congestion occurs when the number of
datagrams sent by the source is beyond the
capacity of the network or routers. This is
another issue in the network layer protocol. If
congestion continues, sometimes a situation
may arrive where the system collapses and no
datagrams are delivered. Although congestion
control is indirectly implemented in the network
layer, still there is a lack of congestion control
in the network layer.
Advantages of Network Layer
Services
Packetization service in the network layer
provides ease of transportation of the data
packets.
Packetization also eliminates single points of
failure in data communication systems.
Routers present in the network layer reduce
network traffic by creating collision and
broadcast domains.
With the help of Forwarding, data packets are
transferred from one place to another in the
network.
Disadvantages of Network
Layer Services
There is a lack of flow control in the design of
the network layer.
Congestion occurs sometimes due to the
presence of too many datagrams in a network
that is beyond the capacity of the network or
the routers. Due to this, some routers may drop
some of the datagrams, and some important
pieces of information may be lost.
Although indirect error control is present in the
network layer, there is a lack of proper error
control mechanisms as due to the presence of
fragmented data packets, error control
becomes difficult to implement.
Article Tags :
Computer Networks
GATE CS
Computer Networks-Network Layer
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Read Full Article
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Networking
Home
Network infrastructure
DEFINITION
Network layer
Andrew Froehlich, West Gate Networks
What is the network layer?
Located at Layer 3 of the Open Systems
Interconnection (OSI) communications model,
the primary function of the network layer is to
move data into and through other networks.
Network layer protocols accomplish this goal
by packaging data with correct network
address information, selecting the appropriate
network routes and forwarding the packaged
data up the stack to the transport layer (Layer
4).
Existing protocols that generally map to the
OSI network layer include the IP portion of the
Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol
(TCP/IP) model -- both IPv4 and IPv6 -- as well
as NetWare Internetwork Packet
Exchange/Sequenced Packet Exchange
(IPX/SPX). Nearly all enterprise networks use
the TCP/IP stack, as well as cellular data
networks, including 3G, 4G LTE and most
recently, 5G networks.
The routing information contained within a
packet includes the source address of the
sending host and the eventual destination host
address of the remote host. This information is
contained within the network layer header that
encapsulates network frames at the data link
layer (Layer 2). The key difference -- and
importance -- between transport
information contained at Layer 2 when
compared to transport information contained at
the network layer is that the information can
move beyond the local network to reach hosts
in remote network locations or different
network segments. The following network
topology diagram depicts devices in one IP
subnet using Layer 3 routing to communicate
with devices in a second IP subnet.
ANDREW FROEHLICH
How Layer 3 of the OSI model works
Functions of the network layer
The primary function of the network layer is to
enable different networks to be interconnected.
It does this by forwarding packets to network
routers, which rely on algorithms to determine
the best paths for the data to travel. These
paths are known as "virtual circuits." The
network layer relies on the Internet Control
Message Protocol (ICMP) for error control
handling and diagnostics to ensure packets are
sent correctly. Quality of Service (QoS) is also
available to permit certain traffic to be
prioritized over other traffic. The network layer
can support either connection-oriented
or connectionless networks, but such a
network data transmission can only be of one
type and not both.
What is the OSI model and its 7
layers?
OSI is a communications reference model to
help conceptualize how data can be
transmitted and received on a network. The
model consists of seven distinct layers forming
a stack. Each layer in the stack is performed in
a step-by-step manner: first, moving up the
stack during data transmissions and then from
the top of the stack down once the data
reaches its destination. The layers of the OSI
model, including the network layer, are shown
below:
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session layer
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Network Layer in OSI Model
OSI stands for Open Systems Interconnection.
It was developed by the ISO – ‘International
Organization for Standardization‘, in the year
1984. It is a 7-layer architecture with each layer
having specific functionality to perform. All
these 7 layers work collaboratively to transmit
the data from one person to another across the
globe.
What is a Network Layer?
The Network Layer is the 5th Layer from the
top and the 3rd layer from the Bottom of
the OSI Model. It is one of the most important
layers which plays a key role in data
transmission. The main job of this layer is to
maintain the quality of the data and pass and
transmit it from its source to its destination. It
also handles routing, which means that it
chooses the best path to transmit the data from
the source to its destination, not just
transmitting the packet. There are
several important protocols that work in this
layer.
Functions of Network Layer
Network Layer serves various important
functions in the data transport mechanism. It is
also responsible for the routing mechanism in
which it selects the best path to transfer the
data from source to it’s destination. It divides
the entire data into smaller packets which
eases the transfer procedure. It is also
responsible for attaching the logical address to
the devices between which the data
transmission is happening, so that the packets
reach correct destination and the destination
can confirm that it is the same packet it was
looking for. Some of the most important
functions of the network layer is given below.
1. Assigning Logical Address
Network layer is solely responsible for
assigning logical addresses to devices which
are either sending or receiving data packets. It
is useful to uniquely identify each devices in a
certain network. The data packets sent or
received consists the IP address of both the
sender device and the receiver device. It is
useful to confirm that the packets are sent or
received by the desired parties. There are two
part in an IP address, a Host ID and Network
ID, using the Host ID it can be confirmed that
the packets were sent by the authorized
sender and it has successfully reached the
desired receiver.
2. Routing
Routing is the process of identifying the best
path to transmit the packets, Network Layer not
only just sends packets from sender to
receiver, but also determines the best route to
send them. Numerous routers are used to find
out the best and safest route to transmit the
data packets. Various routing algorithms are
used to determine the best path, like link state
routing, Distance Vector
Routing, Flooding, Random Walk etc. The
header of each data packet holds the
information regarding the path they need to
follow to reach their destination via different
routers. Usually there are multiple routers
between the sender and
the receiver, so the data packets are routed by
using all these available routers.
3. Host-to-Host delivery
Host-to-Host delivery also known as
Forwarding is the process in which the network
layer transmits or forwards the data packets via
routers, after determining the best path/route.
In some cases it takes more than one router to
reach the destination, Network Layer takes
care of those too, it forwards packets from
each router to the another router until it
reaches the destination securely.
4. Logical Subnetting
Network Layer also allows a bigger network to
be divided into smaller chunks of network
known as Logical Subnetting. It helps the IP
addresses to be used more efficiently and less
amount of IP address will be wasted. It is also
helpful to manage a larger network more
efficiently. Due to smaller networks, it would be
easier to find the device if any troubleshooting
is needed.
5. Fragmentation and Reassembly
Each device / node has a maximum capacity to
receive data (it may differ from Node to Node),
which is called Maximum Transmission Unit
(MTU). If the total size of data packets
exceedes that size limit, then those data
packets are fragmented into more smaller
packets / fragmented so that they can fit the
MTU. After fragmentation those packets are
being send to the receiver, and at the receiving
end all those fragmented packets are
rearranged to create the actual data in order.
The fragmentation is taken care by the routers.
6. Error Handling
Network Layer also check for errors and
handles them. Network Layer uses various
error detection techniques like Cylic
Redundancy Check (CRC) , Checksums etc.
Apart from just detecting, it also handle those
errors using different approaches like Forward
Error Correction (FEC), Hamming Code, Reed-
Solomon Codes etc. It also re-transmit the
packets which are either erroneous or didn’t
reach the receiver. It uses the ACK messages
to determine whether a packet has been
successfully reached the receiver or not, if
there is a Negative ACK, then it means that
there is some error with the packet, and the
receiver will ask the sender to resend that
packet.
7. Quality of Service (QoS)
Network layer also keep track of the important
data or the particular quality of data which is
needed to be send first. Based on
the QoS settings, it determines and prioritize
the important data types which needed to be
send first. It ensures that there is no delay in
receiving the important data in any condition.
8. Network Address Translation
(NAT)
Network Layer also takes care of the Network
Address Translation (NAT), means that it
converts any private IP address into a public IP
address which is required to communicate
between the sender and the receiver.
9. Congestion Control
Just like MTU, if there is an excessive load on
the network which it can’t handle, the network
become congested. Due to which the entire
process of sending and receiving data comes
to a pause. Congestion can be dealt with using
different algorithms like Leaky Bucket
Algorithm and Token Bucket Algorithm. In case
of the leaky bucket algorithm, whatever might
be the speed or amount of data flow into the
bucket, the data leaks at a constant rate, which
reduces the congestion in the network. In case
of the Token Bucket Algorithm, tokens are
being added into the bucket one by one, until it
has reached the maximum capacity, then one
by one according the token sequence each
data packet is transmitted.
10. Encapsulation and
Decapsulation
Network Layer encapsulates the data coming
from the Transport Layer, and also adds
important header parts to the packets, which
consists of the necessary information like
source IP address and destination IP address.
After receiving the data packets on the
destination side it decapsulates those and
make them of original size.
Working of Network Layer
The network layer will initially receive data from
the OSI model’s transport layer as part of the
data flow between that layer and other OSI
levels. These data packets are handled by the
network layer by include their source and
destination addresses. Additionally, it
incorporates the network protocols for proper
transfer to the data-link layer over the network
channel.
Responsibilities of the Network
Layer
In the network channel and communication
channel, the network layer is in charge of the
responsibilities listed below:
It is in charge of managing the network
channel’s quickest routing path for the data
packet.
The network layer packages the data that has
been received for transmission.
maintains the network traffic in the channel by
handling the network layer protocols.
Protocols Used at Network
Layer
A protocol is an agreed-upon way of formatting
data so that two or more devices are able to
communicate with and understand each other.
A number of different protocols make
connections, testing, routing, and encryption
possible at the network layer, including:
IP
IPsec
ICMP
IGMP
GRE
FAQs on Network Layer in OSI
Q.1: Which is network layer
device?
Answer:
Routers is network layer device. A router is a
device that routes data packets based on IP
addresses.
Q.2: What services are offered by
Network Layer in general?
Answer:
Packetizing, Forwarding and Routing are the
three general services offered by Network
Layer.
Q.3: Which algorithms are used by
network layer when there is a
congestion in the
network?
Answer:
Network layer uses algorithms like Token
Bucket Algorithm and Leaky Bucket
Algorithm to handle congestion.
Article Tags :
Computer Networks
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Read Full Article
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Network Layer Introduction
Previous
Next
Layer-3 in the OSI model is called Network
layer. Network layer manages options
pertaining to host and network addressing,
managing sub-networks, and internetworking.
Network layer takes the responsibility for
routing packets from source to destination
within or outside a subnet. Two different subnet
may have different addressing schemes or
non-compatible addressing types. Same with
protocols, two different subnet may be
operating on different protocols which are not
compatible with each other. Network layer has
the responsibility to route the packets from
source to destination, mapping different
addressing schemes and protocols.
Layer-3 Functionalities
Devices which work on Network Layer mainly
focus on routing. Routing may include various
tasks aimed to achieve a single goal. These
can be:
Addressing devices and networks.
Populating routing tables or static routes.
Queuing incoming and outgoing data and then
forwarding them according to quality of service
constraints set for those packets.
Internetworking between two different subnets.
Delivering packets to destination with best
efforts.
Provides connection oriented and connection
less mechanism.
Network Layer Features
With its standard functionalities, Layer 3 can
provide various features as:
Quality of service management
Load balancing and link management
Security
Interrelation of different protocols and subnets
with different schema.
Different logical network design over the
physical network design.
L3 VPN and tunnels can be used to provide
end to end dedicated connectivity.
Internet protocol is widely respected and
deployed Network Layer protocol which helps
to communicate end to end devices over the
internet. It comes in two flavors. IPv4 which
has ruled the world for decades but now is
running out of address space. IPv6 is created
to replace IPv4 and hopefully
mitigates limitations of IPv4 too.
Print Page
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Data Management
Network Layer
Margaret Rouse
Technology Expert
https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=Network
%20Layer+-+https://www.techopedia.com/
definition/24204/network-layer
What Does Network Layer
Mean?
The network layer is a portion of online
communications that allows for the connection
and transfer of data packets between different
devices or networks.
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The network layer is the third level (Layer 3) of
the Open
Systems Interconnection Model (OSI Model)
and the layer that provides data routing paths
for network communication. Data is transferred
to the receiving device in the form of packets
via logical network paths in an ordered format
controlled by the network layer.
Logical connection setup, data forwarding,
routing and delivery error reporting are the
network layer’s primary responsibilities. Layer
3 can be either able to support connection-
oriented or connectionless networks (but not
both of them at the same time).
Techopedia Explains Network
Layer
The network layer is considered the backbone
of the OSI Model. It selects and manages the
best logical path (virtual circuit) for data
transfer between nodes by assigning
destination and source IP addresses to each
data segment.
In the OSI model, the network layer responds
to requests from the layer above it (transport
layer) and issues requests to the layer below it
(data link layer). Information about the source
and destination hosts is already contained in
the data link layer (Layer 2), but it’s the
network layer that interconnects different
networks allowing data to move between them.
Quality of Service (QoS) allows for the
prioritization of certain types of traffic.
Data is checked for errors by the Internet
Control Message Protocol (ICMP), which
ensures that packets are sent correctly by
Layer 3.
Layer 3 contains hardware devices such as
routers, bridges, firewalls and switches, but it
actually creates a logical image of the most
efficient communication route and implements
it with a physical medium.
Network layer protocols exist in every host or
router. The router examines the header fields
of all the IP packets that pass through it.
Networking software is used to attach the
header to each data packet sent as well as to
read it to determine how the packet is handled
at the receiving end.
All the connection, encryption, checking, and
routing processes occur at the network layer
and are made by several different protocols,
including:
IP
IPsec
IPX/SPX
ICMP
IGMP
GRE
Internet Protocol (IP) and Netware IPX/SPX
are the most common protocols associated
with the network layer.
The network layer infrastructure is inherently
vulnerable to
malicious attacks since it is exposed on the
Internet. Distributed denial-of-service (DDoS)
attacks can be launched to overwhelm all the
physical network interfaces such as routers
and stop data transmission.
Although this comparison can be misleading,
the OSI network layer is often referenced as
the equivalent of the Internet layer of the
TCP/IP model. However, there are several
differences between the two, and the TCP/IP
Internet layer only has a limited amount of the
functions covered by the OSI network layer.
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Related Terms
Open Systems Interconnection Model
Application Layer
Presentation Layer
Session Layer
Data Link Layer
Transport Layer
Physical Layer
Local Area Network
Wide Area Network
Internet Protocol Address
Related Reading
An Introduction to the OSI Model
10G Broadband is Coming: Here’s What You
Need to Know
Network Virtualization: The Future of the OSI
Model
Considering a VPN? Make the Right Choice for
Your Needs
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What Is the Network Layer? (With Functions
and Examples)
What Is the Network Layer?
(With Functions and
Examples)
Indeed Editorial Team
Updated October 1, 2022
Network layers are part of network-to-network
connections that make the Internet possible.
This layer is the portion of the communications
process during these connections when
packets of data are sent between different
networks. Learning about this layer can help
you advance your IT career and explore
specializations in this field. In this article, we
define the network layer, note the differences
between the internet and networks, explain
networks and all layers in a system, describe
the layer's functions, and review examples.
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What is the network layer?
The network layer is a part of online
communication that connects and transfers
data packets between different networks or
devices. As the foundation of the open systems
interconnection model, the layer manages and
selects the best logical path for data transfer
between nodes. It assigns source and
destination internet protocol addresses to each
data segment.
The primary responsibilities of this layer are
logical connection setup, data forwarding,
routing, and delivery error reporting. The layer
can either support connectionless networks or
connection-oriented networks. Encryption,
connection checking, and routing processes
happen at this layer and use several different
protocols, including:
IP
IPsec
IPX/SPX
ICMP
IGMP
GRE
Related: How to Become a Network Engineer
(With Job Roles and Salary)
What is a network?
Understanding this layer begins with seeing a
network as two or more connected computer
devices. These devices connect to a central
hub, such as a router and include smaller
divisions of the network. Subnetworking allows
IT professionals to manage thousands of
internet protocol (IP) addresses and connected
devices in large and geographically distant
networks.
Computers on a network may link through
cables, radio waves, telephone lines, infrared
light beams, or satellites. Common types of
networks include a local area network (LAN) or
wide area network (WAN). Other network types
are wireless LAN, wireless WAN, and
metropolitan area networks (MAN).
Differences between networks
and the internet
Learning about this layer involves knowing the
differences between a network and the internet
as both often behave similarly. A network
consists of computers that physically connect
and may share data with each other in the
layer structure and on the Internet technology
links networks and
can build a complex network. Key differences
include:
Network coverage is limited while the internet
covers a large geographical area
Networks link many computers and network-
enabled devices, and the internet connects
many networks
Types of networks are LAN, MAN, WAN, CAN,
and HAM and the internet type is the world
wide web
Networks link several thousand systems
simultaneously, and the Internet connects
millions of computers at the same time
Networks need fewer hardware devices while
the internet requires a wide array of devices
Layers in a standard model
Layers exist in the open systems
interconnection model. This interconnection
model is conceptual, a description of how the
Internet works, and allows different computer
systems to communicate using standard
protocols. This model is a universal language
for computer networking and splits a
communication system into seven abstract
layers stacked on each other.
Functions that send data over the Internet
involve those seven stacked layers, with each
relying on the other in order. Each layer activity
prepares data to move over cables, wires,
and radio waves as a series of sections. This
standardized model includes these layers:
Application layer: This layer directly interacts
with data from the user and relies on protocols,
including HTTP and SMTP, and data
manipulation to provide data.
Presentation layer: Because layers stack in a
certain order, this layer prepares data through
translation, compression, or translation, for use
by the application layer.
Session layer: This layer opens and closes
communication between two devices and
synchronizes data transfer with checkpoints to
prevent the loss of an entire transfer owing to a
crash or disconnect.
Transport layer: The transport layer ensures
end-to-end communication between two
devices by sending data in sections to the next
layer, reassembling these segments,
performing error control, and limiting
transmission speed.
Network layer: This third layer facilitates data
transfer between two different networks by
breaking up segments from the transport layer
into smaller units and routes the data to its
destination.
Data link layer: Although much like the
previous layer, the data link layer is different
because it facilitates data transfer in small
pieces called frames between two devices on
the same network.
Physical layer: This layer involves the physical
equipment for the data transfer, such as
switches and cables, and where data converts
into a bitstream as a string of 0s and 1s.
Related: How to Get Into IT (With Tips to Build
Your IT Career)
Functions of the layer
The third layer's main functions involve
providing the means to transfer packets from a
source to a destination using one or more
networks. Data is sent as packets or small
sections for reassembly on another computer.
These packets include a header that contains
information about the packet and the body,
which is the data being sent.
At this layer, networking software attaches a
header to each packet and on the receiving
end, networking software uses the header to
understand how to handle the packet. A header
includes information about the content,
destination, and source of each packet. This
layer also carries out some of these functions:
Routing
This function defines this layer as it selects the
correct route between the source and
destination device to move data across a
series of interconnected networks. Incoming
packets come from various sources, with this
layer in the
network determining their final destination and
the route they can take. The best path provides
the least delay and greatest available
bandwidth.
Related: What Is a Network Firewall? (With
Key Terms and Benefits)
Logical addressing
Each device that communicates over a network
connects with a logical address. Logical
addresses do not depend on the hardware and
are instead unique across an entire connected
network. For example, you may access a
network device by using this layer's protocol to
translate logical addresses to an address you
assign.
Datagram encapsulation
Another function of this layer is to encapsulate
messages from higher layers by placing them
into datagrams, also known as packets, under
the layer header. This function is much like
writing a letter, placing it in an envelope with a
name and address, then giving it to a courier
who places that envelope in a larger delivery
box. The IP is the place where most data
encapsulation occurs as data passes to the IP
from one of two protocols, TCP or UDP.
Fragmentation and reassembly
Fragmentation occurs in this layer when the
size of a packet, or datagram, exceeds the size
of data that can be held in a
frame. This layer divides the package it
receives from the transport layer into fragments
so that no disruption happens in data flows.
The reassembly of fragments takes place at
the destination because packets take
independent paths and may arrive out of order.
Related: What Is a Dedicated Server?
(Including Benefits and Tips)
Error handling and diagnostics
Error handling and diagnostics are critical
aspects of this layer. For example, certain
protocols at this layer allow devices that
connect logically, or that try to route traffic, to
exchange information about the status of hosts
on the devices themselves or on the network.
One protocol, Internet Control Message
Protocol (ICMP), handles errors and
diagnostics.
Congestion control
Another function of this layer controls
congestion on a network device. These
devices can only handle so much data and
congestion control lowers the amount of data a
device receives by slowing sending activity.
This function takes the form of algorithms that
control the entry of data packets into the
network and reduce the chances of a collapse
or errors in the network.
Examples of the layer
This third layer is at work during many
communications using computer systems. For
example, when messaging someone, this layer
assigns destination and source IP addresses to
the data segments. This layer finds the best
paths for the delivery of data between your IP
address as the source and the address of your
friend, customer, and colleague as the
destination.
Another example of this layer at work involves
communications happening in the same
network. Greg and Juan may connect in the
same local area network, and Greg sends Juan
a message. Because Juan is on a different
local area network, Greg's message involves
this layer's process to allow the message to
reach Juan's computer.
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