A layered protocol stack is designed to simplify network communication by separating functionalities into distinct layers. Each layer has a defined role and communicates with the layers directly above and below it. The main benefits of this model include:

Simplified design and implementation: Developers can focus on one layer without needing to understand the entire system.

Flexibility: New protocols can be developed and inserted at specific layers without redesigning the whole stack.

Interoperability: Standard interfaces allow different systems and vendors to work together.

Isolation of functions: Errors and updates can be managed within one layer without impacting others.

However,reducing protocol overhead is not a primary goalof this model. In fact, the encapsulation and interaction between layers can sometimesintroduce extra overhead. This overhead is a trade-off accepted to gain the other benefits listed above.

The Link layer, also known as the Data Link layer in the OSI model, is responsible for encapsulating packets from the Network layer into frames suitable for transmission over the physical medium. This process includes adding headers and trailers to the packet to create a frame, which contains necessary information for error detection, addressing, and control.?

According to the OSI model, the Data Link layer serves as the intermediary between the Network layer and the Physical layer. It ensures that data is packaged into frames and manages the access to the physical transmission medium.?

Option A correctly describes this function.?

Option B pertains to the Network layer, which is responsible for encapsulating data into IP datagrams and determining the routing of these datagrams across networks.?

Option C relates to the Transport layer, which handles the encapsulation of application data into transport layer segments, such as TCP or UDP messages.?

Option D is a function of the Physical layer, which deals with the transmission and reception of raw bitstreams over a physical medium, including the timing and synchronization of signals.?

VLAN Stacking, also known asQ-in-Q tunneling, is a technology that allowsmultiple customers to use overlapping VLAN IDswhile being transported over ashared service provider network.

Key Concepts:

Customer VLAN (C-VLAN):The VLAN used by the customer in their own network.

Service VLAN (S-VLAN):The VLAN used by the service provider to encapsulate the customer VLAN.

When VLAN stacking is applied:

A customer's Ethernet frame already tagged with aC-VLANisencapsulated with an additional outer S-VLAN tag.

This way,multiple customers can use the same C-VLAN ID, but remain isolated by theunique S-VLANassigned to them by the service provider.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. VLAN Trunking:Used to carry multiple VLANs over a single physical link but doesn’t allow reuse of VLAN IDs across customers.

C. VLAN Tagging:Refers to the general process of adding a VLAN tag; it doesn't provide the isolation needed across shared infrastructure.

D. VLAN Routing:Refers to Layer 3 routing between VLANs, not to ID reuse or transport over a shared provider backbone.