This International Standard defines the abstract operation of the relaying functions of a Network entity in an intermediate system, as needed to support the OSI connection-mode Network service.As the principal means for expressing the definition, the concept of the Network Internal Layer Service is used. This is similar to an OSI layer service, but adapted to expressing the invariants of the information flow within and throughout the layer, rather than just the external functionality of the layer provided between two service access points.The definition includes the invocation of Network routing functions as a necessary element of the Network relaying functions, but it does not specify how those routing functions are to be realized.The definition of Network relaying functions applies both to a subnetwork supporting all elements of the Network Service (as defined in ISO 8648), and to a Network relay system interconnecting two subnetwork according to any of the three approaches defined in ISO 8648. In the case of the hop-by-hop harmonization approach to interconnection, the definition of Network relaying functions applies to the result of harmonizing the subnetwork service(s) to the level of the Network Service. The harmonization functions, which require protocol mechanisms to be specified, are outside the scope of this International Standard.This International Standard is intended for use in guiding the design and application of real interworking units and real subnetworks (eg, local area networks and private packet switched networks) which are to support the OSI NS. It its also intended for use in the development of standards for the Network layer, to ensure that the requirements deriving from the need for Network layer relaying are taken into account.There are no requirements for conformance to this International Standard.NOTE - Conformance requirements relating to Network layer relaying are to be found in the specifications for mappings between the Network Internal Layer Service and Network protocols.

First published as Joint Standard AS/NZS 4209:1994.