Which layer of the OSI model is responsible for end-to-end communication?

The Transport Layer of the OSI model is primarily responsible for end-to-end communication between devices over a network. Its main functions include ensuring complete data transfer, providing reliable or unreliable delivery options, and maintaining the order of messages. This layer introduces mechanisms for error detection and correction, flow control, and segmentation of data into manageable packets.

By establishing a logical connection between the sender and receiver, the Transport Layer ensures that data is delivered accurately and in the correct sequence, making it essential for applications that require reliable communications, such as file transfers or streaming services. Protocols that operate at this layer, like TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) and UDP (User Datagram Protocol), illustrate the two main approaches to service delivery: TCP offers reliable communication, while UDP provides a faster, connectionless method.

Understanding the role of the Transport Layer is crucial as it serves as the intermediary that manages and ensures the successful delivery of data across the network, all while considering the needs of both the applications and the underlying networking infrastructure.