What does the Address field in the HDLC header specify?

The Address field in the HDLC (High-Level Data Link Control) header is used to specify both the destination and source addresses. This is a crucial function as it allows the HDLC protocol to identify which device is sending the data and which device is intended to receive it. The Address field facilitates communication over point-to-point and multipoint connections, ensuring that the data packets reach the correct endpoint.

In HDLC, this addressing mechanism is essential for proper routing of frames, especially in environments where multiple devices might be on the same link. By containing both source and destination addresses, the system can employ the necessary methods for frame delivery and manage communication effectively. This capability is fundamental to the proper functioning of data link layer protocols and is critical for maintaining orderly and accurate communications in a network.