Enterprise Architecture A to Z

Networking in SOA Environments ◾ 387

the functionality of the other layers, thereby presenting a loosely coupled framework. SONA’s lay-

ers are the following [MIL200701]:

◾ Applications layer—is includes all software used for business purposes (e.g., enterprise

resource planning) or collaboration (e.g., conferencing). As Web-based applications rely on

XML schema and become tightly interwoven with routed messages, they become capable

of supporting greater collaboration and more effective communications across an integrated

networked environment.

◾ Integrated network services layer—is is a layer that optimizes communications between

applications and services by taking advantage of distributed network functions such as con-

tinuous data protect ...