Introduction:
In computer networking, the services provided to users are typically delivered through different layers of the network protocol stack. Each layer has its own specific role and responsibilities. The application layer is the highest layer in the stack and is responsible for providing services directly to the user.

Explanation:
The application layer is the topmost layer in the OSI model or the TCP/IP model. It is responsible for providing services directly to the user or application. This layer interacts with the user, processes user requests, and delivers the results back to the user.

Services provided by the application layer:
The application layer provides a wide range of services to the user, including:

1. File Transfer: The application layer enables users to transfer files between different systems. It supports protocols like FTP (File Transfer Protocol) and TFTP (Trivial File Transfer Protocol).

2. Email Communication: The application layer is responsible for email communication. It supports protocols like SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) for sending emails and POP (Post Office Protocol) or IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol) for retrieving emails.

3. Web Browsing: The application layer enables users to access and browse websites. It supports protocols like HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) for transferring web pages and HTTPS (HTTP Secure) for secure web communication.

4. Remote Login: The application layer facilitates remote login to other systems. It supports protocols like Telnet and SSH (Secure Shell).

5. Domain Name Resolution: The application layer translates domain names into IP addresses using protocols like DNS (Domain Name System).

6. Database Access: The application layer provides access to databases through protocols like SQL (Structured Query Language).

7. Real-Time Communication: The application layer supports real-time communication services like voice and video conferencing. It uses protocols like RTP (Real-time Transport Protocol) and SIP (Session Initiation Protocol).

Conclusion:
The application layer is responsible for providing services directly to the user. It enables communication, file transfer, email, web browsing, remote login, and many other services. This layer interacts with the user or application and is the highest layer in the network protocol stack.