network layer (redirected from Difference between a layer 3 switch and a router)

network layer

The services in the OSI protocol stack (layer 3 of 7) that provide network-to-network (internetworking) for a communications session. Also called the "Internet layer" or "IP layer." See OSI model and Internet Protocol.

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(networking)

network layer - (communications subnet layer) The third lowest layer in the OSI seven layer model. The network layer determines routing of packets of data from sender to receiver via the data link layer and is used by the transport layer. The most common network layer protocol is IP.