Session Layer in OSI model

The Session Layer is the 5th layer of the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model and it helps in managing and controlling dialogues (sessions) between computers. It establishes, coordinates and terminates communication between applications on different devices, ensuring smooth and organized data exchange.

Role of the Session Layer

The Session Layer ensures that two communicating devices can establish a meaningful dialogue, exchange data in an organized manner and properly close the session when communication is complete.

• It provides mechanisms for session setup, management and termination.
• It ensures that communication remains synchronized and reliable, even during long or complex data transfers.
• It handles dialogue control, deciding whose turn it is to send or receive data.

Note: In modern TCP/IP networks, some of its functions (like session release and dialogue control) are handled at the Transport Layer (TCP) or Application Layer, reducing the Session Layer’s independent role.

Key Functions of the Session Layer

• Session Establishment: Initiates and negotiates communication parameters (e.g., authentication, duplex mode).
• Communication Synchronization: Keeps data streams in order using checkpoints.
• Activity & Dialog Management: Controls turns, prevents collisions, and avoids duplication.
• Resynchronization & Recovery: Recovers from failures using synchronization points.
• Session Termination: Gracefully ends communication after all data is exchanged.

Working of the Session Layer

• Establishes and negotiates session parameters (e.g., authentication, duplex mode).
• Manages token-based dialogue control to avoid collisions.
• Inserts synchronization checkpoints for recovery from failures.
• Ensures data integrity by reducing duplication or message loss.
• Gracefully terminates sessions after confirming all data has been exchanged.

Session Layer Protocols

Several protocols and technologies operate at the Session Layer:

• AppleTalk Data Stream Protocol (ADSP): Developed by Apple for LAN communication with self-configuration support.
• Real-time Transport Control Protocol (RTCP): Provides QoS feedback for RTP-based multimedia sessions.
• Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP): Enables Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) over TCP/IP.
• Password Authentication Protocol (PAP): Provides password-based user authentication in PPP connections.
• Remote Procedure Call Protocol (RPCP): Allows a program to execute procedures in another address space (client-server interaction).
• Sockets Direct Protocol (SDP): Supports socket communication over RDMA-enabled networks.

Devices Associated with the Session Layer

• Firewalls: Monitor and control sessions for security.
• Proxy Servers: Act as intermediaries, managing sessions between clients and servers.
• Session Border Controllers (SBCs): Secure and manage VoIP sessions.
• Application Servers: Create and maintain user sessions for applications.