Link Layer Functional Overview
The Purpose of the Link Layer
The Link Layer is responsible for sending and receiving data across the fabric at the packet level rather than the message level (that is the responsibility of the Transport Layer). The Link Layer defines the packet format (other than the GRH which is handled at the Network Layer and is only present when the source and destination are in different subnets), as well as how packets are switched within a subnet between the source and destination ports. It also handles flow control (transmit/receive buffer management) at the physical link level between the transmitter on one end and the receiver on the other end of the physical link. The Link Layer's functions include:
Buffering.
Flow control. ...
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