What occurs at the data link layer during the encapsulation process for a PC connected to an Ethernet network?

During the encapsulation process at the data link layer for a PC connected to an Ethernet network, the main function is to prepare the data for transmission over that specific network medium. This involves several key actions, with one of the most important being the addition of the physical address, also known as the MAC (Media Access Control) address.

The data link layer is responsible for node-to-node data transfer and ensuring that the correct devices communicate with each other on the same local area network (LAN). When a data packet is formed, it includes various elements such as the destination MAC address and the source MAC address. These addresses uniquely identify devices within the same network segment, allowing the correct delivery of frames as they traverse the network.

By adding the physical address, the data link layer enables Ethernet to function efficiently, ensuring that data reaches the intended recipient without being directed at the wrong hardware. This step is crucial for the proper functioning of the Ethernet protocols, as it provides the means to route data to the correct destination within a local network segment.