Which protocol operates at the link layer of the OSI model and is responsible for network media access control?

The protocol that operates at the link layer of the OSI model and is responsible for network media access control is Ethernet. Ethernet is specifically designed to enable devices on the same local area network (LAN) to communicate with each other. It defines both the frame format and the procedures for accessing the physical medium, which is essential for coordination among multiple devices that might want to transmit data simultaneously.

At the link layer, Ethernet manages how data packets are placed on the network and how they are transmitted over the physical media. This involves handling functions such as collision detection and resolving access to the media, which are crucial for maintaining efficient communication within a network. In a LAN environment, Ethernet facilitates this process by allowing devices to send and listen for signals, making it an essential component for local networking.

The other protocols mentioned operate at different layers of the OSI model. IP (Internet Protocol) functions at the network layer, responsible for packet routing across networks. TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) operates at the transport layer, managing the delivery of data across a network with guarantees of reliability and order. HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) works at the application layer, facilitating web communication. This distinction in their operational layers and functions clarifies why Ethernet is the correct answer for this