AP Networking Practice Test

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Which statement correctly describes the OSI layer and typical function of a switch versus a router?

Switches operate at Layer 2 to forward frames using MAC addresses; routers operate at Layer 3 to route IP packets between networks.

Understanding how devices map to OSI layers helps explain their typical roles. A switch mainly operates at Layer 2 (Data Link): it forwards frames using MAC addresses, keeping traffic inside a local network segment. A router works at Layer 3 (Network): it routes IP packets between different networks, making decisions based on IP addresses and routing tables. This separation lets switches efficiently connect devices within the same network, while routers connect separate networks and determine the best path to destinations.

In practice you might encounter devices that blend these functions (Layer 3 switching), but the classic distinction is as described above. The other options mix up layer responsibilities or point to services (like DNS or DHCP) that aren’t the core OSI-layer function of switches versus routers.

Switches operate at Layer 3 to route IP packets; routers operate at Layer 2 to forward frames.

Switches operate at Layer 4 for port-based filtering; routers operate at Layer 7 for application awareness.

Switches perform DNS resolution; routers perform DHCP.

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