Which device operates at the Data Link layer of the OSI model?

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A switch is a device that primarily operates at the Data Link layer of the OSI model, where it is responsible for making decisions based on MAC addresses to forward data frames to the correct destination within a local area network (LAN). This layer ensures that data is packaged appropriately for transmission over the physical medium and can detect and handle collisions.

Additionally, a bridge also functions at the Data Link layer. It connects and filters traffic between two or more network segments, effectively dividing collision domains while still allowing communication between them.

While a router operates primarily at the Network layer, it can also interact with the Data Link layer, especially when encapsulating packets for transmission over various Layer 2 technologies. In contexts involving different types of interfaces and communications, routers may need to consider Data Link layer addresses.

Since both switches and bridges operate exclusively at the Data Link layer and routers can also operate within the framework of this layer in specific contexts, it's accurate to conclude that all listed devices engage with the Data Link layer in some capacity, making the correct response the option indicating all of the provided devices.

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