What layer of the open system interconnection model do routers operate?

Routers operate at Layer 3 of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model, which is the Network layer. This layer is responsible for the logical addressing and routing of packets across different networks. It determines how data is forwarded from one device to another on a network, using IP addresses. Routers analyze the destination IP address in each packet and decide the best path for that packet to take across potentially multiple networks.

In contrast, Layer 2, known as the Data Link layer, deals with physical addressing and directly connects devices within the same local network segment. Layer 4, the Transport layer, is responsible for end-to-end communication, ensuring complete data transfer and error recovery. Layer 5, the Session layer, manages sessions or connections between applications.

Understanding these distinctions highlights the router's critical role in directing data across complex networks and understanding how it fits within the broader context of network communication.