Multiple choice networking osi-model

Encryption takes place at which layer?

  1. physical

  2. presentation

  3. application

  4. session

  5. data link
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

Encryption and decryption are primarily presentation layer (Layer 6) functions in the OSI model. The presentation layer handles data translation, encryption, and compression. While encryption can also occur at the application layer, the OSI model specifically assigns it to the presentation layer.

AI explanation

In the OSI model, the Presentation layer is responsible for data representation, formatting, and transformation between systems, which includes encryption/decryption, compression, and character-set translation. That's why encryption is textbook-classified at this layer. The Physical layer only deals with raw bit transmission over media; the Application layer provides end-user services (like HTTP, FTP) without handling data transformation itself; the Session layer manages dialogue/session control between hosts; and the Data Link layer handles framing and node-to-node delivery. None of these other layers are defined to own encryption in the classical OSI model, making Presentation the correct answer.

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