Which layer of the OSI model is responsible for routing and forwarding data packets?

The Network layer of the OSI model is responsible for routing and forwarding data packets. This layer is crucial in determining the best path for data to travel from the source to the destination across interconnected networks. It uses logical addressing (like IP addresses) to facilitate the identification of devices on the network and to aid in directing packets through routers.

This layer handles various responsibilities, including packet forwarding, addressing, error handling, and fragmentation. Routers operate at this layer to make forwarding decisions based on the destination IP address, ensuring that data is efficiently routed through complex networking environments. By managing how packets are sent across networks and ensuring they reach the intended destination, the Network layer plays a vital role in overall network communication.