Data transformation in networking involves different layers of addressing and encapsulation, from MAC addresses for local communication, to IP addresses for routing across networks, and IP addresses plus port numbers for application-level communication.
Each state provides a specific level of abstraction and functionality to ensure data reaches its intended destination. Each packet contains three important pieces of information, including the source and destination MAC addresses, the source and destination IP addresses, and the source and destination Port numbers.
The MAC address is a unique identifier assigned to each network interface card (NIC) in a device. When a packet is transmitted on a network, it is sent to the destination MAC address, which is determined using the ARP protocol. The MAC address is used to identify the specific device on the network that the packet is intended for.