MCQ Detailed View

The MAC (Media Access Control) sublayer is one of the two parts of the Data Link Layer in the OSI model. The main role of the MAC sublayer is to control access to the physical transmission medium.

When multiple devices are connected to the same network (like in a LAN), the MAC sublayer decides which device can use the physical medium (like a cable or wireless signal) at a given time. This prevents data collisions and ensures smooth communication.

Key functions of the MAC sublayer:

• Uses MAC addresses to identify devices on a local network


• Controls when and how devices send data


• Adds headers and trailers to form data frames


• Ensures that the medium is free before transmitting

The MAC sublayer works directly with the Physical Layer and is responsible for frame delivery over a specific medium such as Ethernet or Wi-Fi.

Conclusion: The MAC sublayer of the Data Link Layer manages access to the physical medium, ensuring that only one device sends data at a time to avoid collisions and communication problems.