[en] The influence of transition layer composition on adhesive strength of a diamond-like coating deposited on steel Kh12M is under study. The transition layer ∼ 100 nm thick was formed as a Ti-C structure with carbon content varying from 0 to 100%. This structure resulted from the deposition of arc sputtered Ti and pulsed arc sputtered graphite from two sources simultaneously. The concentration of C in the transition layer was controlled thought the variation of a carbon deposition rate at a constant Ti deposition velocity. The adhesion strength was determined from the extent of coating exfoliation near a scratch or from cone indentation of a Rockwell hardness meter. The best adhesion of coatings 1-2μ thick is attained when a 20 nm thin layer of Ti is covered with carbon-titanium mixture, not lower TiC in composition, with progressive transition to a pure diamond-like coating. Measurements of microhardness, friction properties and wear rate in abrasive powder show high quality of diamond-like coatings on steel if the transition layer is of optimal composition