Which layer of the OSI model is responsible for switching and routing?

The Network layer of the OSI model is fundamentally responsible for switching and routing data between devices across a network. This layer manages the logical addressing and the routing of packets, ensuring that data can traverse through multiple networks to reach its destination.

At the Network layer, routers and layer-3 switches operate to determine the best path for data to travel, using protocols like IP (Internet Protocol). It encapsulates data into packets and handles the delivery from the source to the destination, often across different network types and topologies.

The importance of the Network layer lies in its ability to facilitate communication between devices that may not be on the same local network, enabling wide-area network (WAN) connectivity. It plays a critical role in managing the overall communication process, ensuring that packets reach their destination accurately and efficiently. This functionality distinctly sets the Network layer apart from the other layers, which have different responsibilities focused on aspects like data formatting, error detection, and transport reliability.