Internet of Things (IoT) Practice Exam

In a communications network, peers can send messages to:

1. Peers in the same layer only

2. Peers in any layer

3. Peers in the layers above and below only

4. Only to their designated peer

The correct answer is: Peers in the same layer only

In a communications network, the concept of peers typically refers to nodes that operate at the same layer within a networking model. This model, as established by the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) and TCP/IP frameworks, describes how different types of data communication can be facilitated between devices. When peers communicate, they usually do so within their own layer because this allows them to exchange information using the same protocols and rules established at that specific layer. For example, in the OSI model, a transport layer protocol such as TCP can only directly interact with transport layer peers, thereby ensuring that data is processed correctly according to the specifications and mechanisms defined for that layer, such as ensuring reliability and flow control. While communication across different layers can occur, it generally involves the use of intermediary processes or protocols which help encapsulate or decapsulate the messages as they traverse through these layers. This is why communicating directly with peers at the same layer is fundamental for maintaining the integrity and structure of the communication process.