Which layer of the OSI model is described as handling the connection of nodes or hosts on a network?

The correct answer relates to Layer 2 of the OSI model, which is referred to as the Data Link layer. This layer is essential for facilitating the connection and communication between nodes or hosts on a local area network (LAN). The Data Link layer is responsible for the framing of packets, handling physical addressing (via MAC addresses), and ensuring error detection and correction as data travels across the physical medium.

Layer 2 operates by establishing a direct link between devices on the same network segment, allowing them to communicate locally without needing to involve higher layers unnecessarily. It defines how data packets are placed on and received from the network medium, managing access to that medium and orchestrating how data is queued and sent.

In contrast, other layers serve different purposes: Layer 1 (Physical layer) deals with the physical connection and transmission of raw bitstreams over hardware like cables and switches; Layer 4 (Transport layer) manages the flow of data between hosts, ensuring complete data transfer with segments; Layer 5 (Session layer) coordinates communication sessions, maintaining connections and managing data exchange between applications. Thus, Layer 2's focus is specifically on node connectivity, making it the correct answer for this question.