Which of the following OSI layers is used for routers?

The correct answer is B. Network layer. Routers operate at the Network layer (Layer 3) because their primary job is to examine IP addresses and make forwarding decisions to route packets between different networks - exactly what Layer 3 defines. The Application layer (A) sits at the top of the stack and handles…

Network Security

Question

Options

AApplication layer
BNetwork layer
CPhysical layer
DTransport layer

How the community answered

(18 responses)

B
83% (15)
C
11% (2)
D
6% (1)

Explanation

Routers operate at the Network layer (Layer 3) because their primary job is to examine IP addresses and make forwarding decisions to route packets between different networks - exactly what Layer 3 defines. The Application layer (A) sits at the top of the stack and handles end-user protocols like HTTP and DNS, with no awareness of routing paths. The Physical layer (C) deals only with raw bit transmission over cables and signals - it has no concept of addresses or paths. The Transport layer (D) manages end-to-end communication and segmentation (TCP/UDP) but doesn't make routing decisions between networks.

Memory tip: Think "Routers = Route = Layer 3" - both "Route" and the number 3 appear in "Layer 3," and routers route at Layer 3. Alternatively, remember the mnemonic device: Layer 3 devices (routers) use Logical addresses (IP), while Layer 2 devices (switches) use MAC addresses.

Topics

#OSI Model#Network Layer#Routers#Layer 3

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