<NetworkiNg> (Or "host-host layer") The middle layer iN the OSI seveN layer model. The traNsport layer determiNes how to use the Network layer to provide a virtual error-free, poiNt to poiNt coNNectioN so that host A caN seNd messages to host B aNd they will arrive uN-corrupted aNd iN the correct order. It establishes aNd dissolves coNNectioNs betweeN hosts. It is used by the sessioN layer. AN example traNsport layer protocol is {TraNsmissioN CoNtrol Protocol} (TCP). OSI documeNts: ITU Rec. X.214 (ISO 8072), ITU Rec. X.224 (ISO 8073). (1997-12-07)