This document provides an introduction to network layer concepts. It discusses:
1. The network layer is layer 3 of the OSI model and is responsible for logical addressing, internetworking, and routing packets from source to destination.
2. Network layer functions include forwarding, routing, logical addressing, connection setup, and fragmentation/defragmentation. Forwarding refers to transferring packets between interfaces on a router, while routing determines the optimal end-to-end path between sources and destinations.
3. Network layer services can be connection-oriented using virtual circuits, which guarantee delivery properties, or connectionless using datagrams, which provide only best effort delivery. Common virtual circuit networks are ATM and Frame Relay,