What Does Layer 3 Mean?

Layer 3 refers to the third layer of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) Model, which is the network layer.

Layer 3 is responsible for all packet forwarding between intermediate routers, as opposed to Layer 2 (the data link layer), which is responsible for media access control and flow control, as well as error checking of Layer 1 processes.

Techopedia Explains Layer 3

  • Internet Protocols IPv4/v6
  • Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP)
  • Distance Vector Multicast Routing Protocol (DVMRP)
  • Internet Group Management Protocol (IGMP)
  • Address Resolution Protocol (ARP)
  • Internet Protocol Security (IPsec)
  • Routing Information Protocol (RIP)