presentation layerThe second highest layer (layer 6) in the {OSI} seven layer model. Performs functions such as text {compression}, code or format conversion to try to smooth out differences between {hosts}. Allows incompatible processes in the {application layer} to communicate via the {session layer}. Documents: {ITU} Rec. X.226 ({ISO} 8823), ITU Rec. X.216 (ISO 8822). (1996-07-20)