Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP): An Overview
The Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP) is widely used for direct data transfer between two devices, such as a
computer and an Internet Service Provider (ISP) or between two routers.
PPP enables reliable, full-duplex communication over a direct link.
CHAPTER 1
Core Services of PPP
PPP provides essential services to manage and secure the data link connection.
Frame Formatting Link Negotiation Data Encapsulation
Organises data into structured Uses Link Control Protocol (LCP) to Wraps network layer packets (e.g.,
packets (frames) with a header, agree on parameters like data size, IP) inside data link layer frames for
data, and trailer for identification. authentication, and error detection safe transmission.
before transmission.
Security and Duplex Operation
Key Takeaway
PPP's design prioritises both reliable
DeÐlce A¼·he·lca·l data transfer and secure access
control for direct connections.
Verifies device identity using protocols like PAP (Password
Authentication Protocol) or CHAP (Challenge Handshake
Authentication Protocol).
F¼-D¼¨eÖ Mde
Allows data to flow simultaneously in both directions, ensuring
efficient communication.
Authentication ensures only authorised devices can establish a link,
enhancing security.
CHAPTER 2
PPP Frame Format
The PPP frame format is similar to HDLC and consists of seven specific fields for reliable data transmission.
1 2 3
Flag Field (1 Byte) Address Field (1 Byte) Control Field (1 Byte)
Marks the beginning and end of a Fixed value (all 1s) for compatibility; Indicates an unnumbered frame
frame (Value: 01111110), acting as a addressing is not strictly needed in (Value: 11000000), as PPP operates
boundary marker. point-to-point links. connectionless without sequence
tracking.
Frame Payload and Error Detection
1 2 3
Protocol Field (1-2 Bytes) Data Field (Variable) FCS Field (2 or 4 Bytes)
Identifies the network layer protocol Contains the actual payload, which Frame Check Sequence (CRC) used
carried in the Data field (e.g., could be network layer packets or for error detection. Receiver verifies
0x0021 for IP). control messages. the value to ensure data integrity.
CHAPTER 3
PPP Connection States
A PPP connection progresses through a sequence of states to ensure proper setup, data transfer, and termination.
Ide S·a·e
Link is inactive; carrier signal is off. Devices are waiting
to initiate a connection.
Ll} E¯·abl¯hlg S·a·e
LCP packets are exchanged to negotiate link
parameters. Success moves to Authenticate State;
A¼·he·lca·e S·a·e failure returns to Idle.
Devices verify identity using PAP or CHAP. Success
moves to Data Exchange; failure moves to Terminate
Link.
Da·a EÖchage ad Te«la·l
1 2 3
EÖchage f Da·a S·a·e Te«la·e Ll} S·a·e Re·¼« · Ide
The main working state. Network One endpoint sends termination After successful termination, the
Control Protocols (NCPs) configure packets. Both sides exchange control connection returns to the resting Idle
network protocols, and data packets packets to safely shut down the link. State.
flow.
CHAPTER 4
Ke× P«·c¯ l ·he PPP S·ac}
PPP relies on a stack of protocols for link management, configuration, and authentication.
Link Control Protocol (LCP) Network Control Protocol (NCP)
Manages the establishment, configuration, testing, and Configures and enables network layer protocols (like IP, IPX)
termination of the data link connection. after the data link is established.
Functions of Link Control Protocol (LCP)
Ll} E¯·abl¯he· & Cflg¼«a·l A¼·he·lca·l Reª¼e¯·
Sets up the communication link and negotiates Can request device authentication using PAP or CHAP.
parameters like frame size and compression.
Q¼al·× Ml·«lg E««« De·ec·l & Te«la·l
Checks the link quality and can close the link if quality Detects errors and ensures the link is closed in a
drops below acceptable levels. controlled manner.
Functions of Network Control Protocol (NCP)
NCP is crucial for enabling network-level communication once the physical link is ready.
Network Layer Multiple Protocol Data Encapsulation
Configuration Support Encapsulates network layer
Configures network Supports various network packets into PPP frames for
parameters, such as assigning protocols (IP, IPX, AppleTalk) via transmission and disables the
IP addresses using IPCP. dedicated NCPs (IPCP, IPXCP, protocol upon termination.
ATCP).
