What role does the Internet Layer serve in the TCP/IP model?

The Internet Layer in the TCP/IP model primarily focuses on routing data across various networks. This layer is responsible for determining the best path for data packets to travel from the source to the destination, allowing communication between devices across different network infrastructures. It achieves this through the use of protocols such as Internet Protocol (IP).

By managing the addressing and routing processes, the Internet Layer enables diverse network systems to communicate effectively, regardless of the underlying technologies. This functionality is crucial, as it ensures that data can reach its intended destination across multiple network segments, even if they use different protocols or hardware.

The other options describe roles that are handled by different layers in the TCP/IP model, such as the Application Layer for connecting applications to the network and ensuring data delivery, and security measures that are typically addressed through additional protocols or layers, rather than being the responsibility of the Internet Layer itself.