Which layer of the OSI model does a switch operate at?
Practice Questions
Q1
Which layer of the OSI model does a switch operate at?
Network Layer
Transport Layer
Data Link Layer
Application Layer
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
Which layer of the OSI model does a switch operate at?
Step 1: Understand what the OSI model is. It is a framework that describes how different networking protocols interact in seven layers.
Step 2: Identify the layers of the OSI model. They are: 1) Physical, 2) Data Link, 3) Network, 4) Transport, 5) Session, 6) Presentation, 7) Application.
Step 3: Learn about the function of a switch. A switch connects devices on a local area network (LAN) and forwards data between them.
Step 4: Know that switches use MAC addresses to forward data. MAC addresses are unique identifiers for network interfaces.
Step 5: Determine which layer deals with MAC addresses. The Data Link Layer (Layer 2) is responsible for node-to-node data transfer and uses MAC addresses.
Step 6: Conclude that since switches operate using MAC addresses, they function at the Data Link Layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model.
