Question

What is the maximum size of data that the application layer can pass on to the TCP layer below?

• A. Any size
• B. 1024 bytes - size of TCP header
• C. 1400 bytes
• D. 4500 bytes

Hint:

- The application layer can send any amount of data to the transport layer. - TCP will segment the data into appropriate MSS-sized packets before transmission.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Data Flow in TCP/IP Model
- The application layer does not impose a restriction on the size of data that can be passed to the transport layer.
- TCP is a stream-oriented protocol, meaning it segments the data dynamically based on the Maximum Segment Size (MSS).
Step 2: How TCP Handles Data from Application Layer
- The TCP layer breaks down the data into segments before transmission.
- The Maximum Transmission Unit (MTU) determines how large a single packet can be.
- Typical MTU values:
- Ethernet MTU = 1500 bytes
- IPv4 Header = 20 bytes
- TCP Header = 20 bytes
- Effective MSS = 1460 bytes (for Ethernet)
Step 3: Evaluating the Options
- (A) Correct: The application layer can pass data of any size, but the transport layer segments it accordingly.
- (B) Incorrect: TCP does not limit data to 1024 bytes.
- (C) Incorrect: 1400 bytes is a typical segment size, not an application layer limit.
- (D) Incorrect: 4500 bytes is larger than a standard MTU but not a strict application layer limit.