At which OSI layer does a router typically operate?

A router typically operates at the Network layer of the OSI model. This layer is responsible for path determination and logical addressing, which are essential functions of a router as it directs packets between different networks. When routers receive data packets, they determine the best route for forwarding these packets towards their destination based on the network addresses contained within the packets.

The Network layer plays a critical role in facilitating communication between devices on different networks, which is precisely what routers are designed to accomplish. They are not involved in the details of data transfer that occur at the Data link layer, nor do they operate at higher levels like the Transport layer, which handles end-to-end communications and error recovery, or the Application layer, which deals with application-specific communications and user interface.

Therefore, the Network layer is the correct context for understanding the operational role of a router in networking.