In which layer of the OSI model does TCP operate?

TCP, or Transmission Control Protocol, operates at the Transport Layer of the OSI model. This layer is responsible for providing end-to-end communication services for applications. It functions to ensure reliable transmission of data, sequence data segments, and control flow, all of which are crucial for maintaining the integrity and order of data being sent across a network. The Transport Layer establishes connections, manages data transfer, and provides error checking, ensuring that data is received correctly and in the right order.

Understanding that TCP specifically manages communication between applications by creating a reliable session helps clarify its placement within the OSI model. In contrast, other layers, such as the Application Layer (which interfaces with user applications), the Network Layer (which handles routing and forwarding of packets), and the Data Link Layer (which manages node-to-node data transfer), do not perform the functions associated with TCP. Hence, identifying TCP's operation within the Transport Layer is crucial in networking studies.