What Layer is ipconfig?

ipconfig is a command-line utility, not a layer of the OSI model. Therefore, it doesn't directly reside on any specific layer. However, it provides information about your network configuration, which pertains to several layers of the OSI model, most notably the Network Layer (Layer 3) and the Data Link Layer (Layer 2).

Here's a breakdown of how ipconfig relates to different layers:

• Network Layer (Layer 3): ipconfig displays and allows configuration of IP addresses, subnet masks, and default gateways. These are fundamental components of IP networking, which operates at Layer 3.

• Data Link Layer (Layer 2): When used with the /all switch, ipconfig displays the MAC address of network adapters. MAC addresses are Layer 2 addresses used for communication within a local network. The IP protocol (operating on Layer 3) relies on the MAC address (from Layer 2) to deliver packets to the correct destination.

In summary: ipconfig itself isn't a layer, but it provides information about configurations related to the Network Layer (IP addresses) and Data Link Layer (MAC addresses). It's a tool used to view information associated with those layers, not a layer itself.