Network layer protocols are responsible for determining the path data takes across a network. Operating at the third layer of the OSI model, they facilitate communication between different devices on a network by routing data packets. These protocols ensure data is transmitted between the source and destination systems, even if they are on different networks. They manage addressing, routing, and traffic control. Common network layer protocols include the Internet Protocol (IP), which provides logical addressing, and routing protocols like RIP (Routing Information Protocol) and OSPF (Open Shortest Path First), which determine the optimal paths for data.
