Systems Security Certified Practitioner – SSCP – Question0959 - Systems Security Certified Practitioner

What ISO/OSI layer do switches primarily operate at?
Do take note that this question makes reference to a plain vanilla switch and not one of the smart switches that is available on the market today.

A. Physical layer
B. Network layer
C. Data link layer
D. Session layer

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

Switches primarily operate at the data link layer (layer 2), although intelligent, extremely fast Layer 3 switching techniques are being more frequently used. Source: KRUTZ, Ronald L. & VINES, Russel D., The CISSP Prep Guide: Mastering the Ten Domains of Computer Security, John Wiley & Sons, 2001, Chapter 3: Telecommunications and Network Security (page 111).