Definition

1. Noun:
   • An interconnecting circuit between two or more locations for the purpose of transmitting and receiving data: A "data link" is a telecommunications pathway or connection that enables the exchange of digital information between devices or systems.

Usage

• The term "data link" is used to describe the physical or logical connection established for data communication. It is a fundamental concept in networking and telecommunications.
• It often refers to the layer in a network protocol stack (like the Data Link Layer in the OSI model) responsible for node-to-node data transfer.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The satellite establishes a secure data link with the ground station.
  • Engineers are troubleshooting the faulty data link between the router and the switch.
  • The protocol governs how data is formatted and controlled across the data link.

Advanced Usage

• "to establish a data link": To successfully create a functional connection for data transmission.
  • The pilot established a data link with air traffic control.
• "data link layer": In the OSI model, this is Layer 2, which provides functional and procedural means to transfer data between network entities.
  • Ethernet operates at the data link layer.

Variants and Related Words

• Link (n): A general term for a connection or relationship. In computing, often used interchangeably with "data link" in informal contexts, though "data link" is more specific.
  • The network link is down.
• Data Link Control (DLC) (n): A service that ensures reliable data transfer across a link.
• Data Link Protocol (n): A set of rules defining the format and control of data transmission over a link (e.g., HDLC, PPP).

Synonyms

• Communication link: A channel for transmitting information.
• Transmission channel: A pathway for sending data.
• Connection: A link between two points in a network.

Related Phrases

• Data link escape: A control character used in telecommunications to signal a change in the interpretation of subsequent characters.
• Break in the data link: An interruption or failure in the data connection.
  • The storm caused a break in the data link.

Noun

1. an interconnecting circuit between two or more locations for the purpose of transmitting and receiving data