Unit 3: NETWORK LAYER
1.1
Introduction To Network Layer
The network layer is the third layer in the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection)
model. Its main responsibility is to deliver data packets from the source host to the
destination host across multiple networks.
Key Functions of the Network Layer:
1. Routing: Determines the best path for data to travel from source to destination.
2. Logical Addressing: Assigns IP addresses to devices so they can be uniquely
identified on the network.
3. Packet Forwarding: Moves packets from one network to another using routers.
4. Fragmentation and Reassembly:
Breaks large packets into smaller ones (if needed) and reassembles them at the
destination.