At which OSI layer do switches primarily function?

Switches primarily function at the Data Link Layer of the OSI model, which is the second layer. The primary role of this layer is to manage the data transfer between devices on the same local area network (LAN). Switches operate by receiving frames of data and using MAC addresses to determine the correct destination for these frames within the LAN.

This layer is responsible for error detection and correction, as well as for framing the data packets that will be sent over the network. By directing data at the data link layer, switches help reduce network congestion and ensure efficient communication between devices.

Other layers of the OSI model handle different responsibilities; for instance, the Physical Layer deals with the transmission and reception of raw bitstreams over a physical medium, while the Network Layer manages routing of data packets across multiple networks and addressing. The Transport Layer is responsible for end-to-end communication and error recovery between hosts, utilizing protocols that ensure complete data transfer.