Which layer of the OSI model is responsible for logical addressing?

The Network Layer is responsible for logical addressing, which is a fundamental part of how data is routed across different networks. This layer defines the logical addressing scheme used to identify devices on a network, typically through an IP address. Logical addressing is necessary for devices to communicate over diverse networks because it allows for the identification and location of devices, even when they are on different networks.

In contrast, the other layers have different roles. The Physical Layer deals with the physical transmission of data over a medium and does not concern itself with addressing. The Data Link Layer is responsible for node-to-node data transfer and uses MAC addresses for communication on the same local network. The Transport Layer focuses on ensuring reliable data transfer between end systems, managing error detection and correction as well as flow control, but does not deal with logical addressing itself.

Thus, the Network Layer’s role in providing logical addressing is central to routing packets from the source to the destination across a network, making it the correct answer to this question.