Which layer handles packets and routing between networks?

Which layer handles packets and routing between networks?

• A. Physical layer
• B. Data Link layer
• C. Network layer
• D. Transport layer

Answer: (C)

Routing between networks is the job of the network layer. This layer handles logical addressing (like IP addresses) and makes forwarding decisions to move packets from a source network to a destination network. Routers operate at this level, using routing tables and protocols to determine the best path for each packet across multiple networks. In contrast, the data link layer works on local links, dealing with frames and MAC addresses; the physical layer handles the raw bit transmission over the medium; and the transport layer manages end-to-end delivery, reliability, and segmentation.

Routing between networks is the job of the network layer. This layer handles logical addressing (like IP addresses) and makes forwarding decisions to move packets from a source network to a destination network. Routers operate at this level, using routing tables and protocols to determine the best path for each packet across multiple networks. In contrast, the data link layer works on local links, dealing with frames and MAC addresses; the physical layer handles the raw bit transmission over the medium; and the transport layer manages end-to-end delivery, reliability, and segmentation.