Which layer of the TCP/IP model is responsible for routing and forwarding packets?

Which layer of the TCP/IP model is responsible for routing and forwarding packets?

• A. Transport
• B. Application
• C. Network
• D. Data Link

Answer: (C)

The Network layer of the TCP/IP model is responsible for routing and forwarding packets. This layer plays a crucial role in determining the best path for data transmission across interconnected networks. When a packet is sent from a source to a destination, the Network layer handles addressing and routing decisions, facilitating communication between devices that may not be on the same local network. At this layer, protocols such as Internet Protocol (IP) operate by managing logical addressing, ensuring that packets are sent through the right paths. The Network layer also is responsible for packet fragmentation and reassembly when the packet size exceeds the limits of the underlying physical networks. In contrast, the other layers serve different functions; the Application layer focuses on user interfaces and end-user services, the Transport layer manages end-to-end communication and data flow, while the Data Link layer ensures reliable transfer of data frames between directly connected devices. Thus, the correct answer highlights the critical function of the Network layer in routing and forwarding, which is essential for effective data communication.

The Network layer of the TCP/IP model is responsible for routing and forwarding packets. This layer plays a crucial role in determining the best path for data transmission across interconnected networks. When a packet is sent from a source to a destination, the Network layer handles addressing and routing decisions, facilitating communication between devices that may not be on the same local network.

At this layer, protocols such as Internet Protocol (IP) operate by managing logical addressing, ensuring that packets are sent through the right paths. The Network layer also is responsible for packet fragmentation and reassembly when the packet size exceeds the limits of the underlying physical networks.

In contrast, the other layers serve different functions; the Application layer focuses on user interfaces and end-user services, the Transport layer manages end-to-end communication and data flow, while the Data Link layer ensures reliable transfer of data frames between directly connected devices. Thus, the correct answer highlights the critical function of the Network layer in routing and forwarding, which is essential for effective data communication.