What is included in the Physical Network Layer?

The Physical Network Layer primarily deals with the tangible aspects of a network, which include the physical hardware and the geographical layout where networking components are situated. This layer consists of physical devices such as cables, switches, routers, and any other hardware that facilitates data transmission. Additionally, it encompasses the geographical distances and physical locations where these components are deployed, as these factors can significantly affect network performance and connectivity.

In contrast, virtual storage systems, IP addresses, protocols, and software applications belong to different layers or aspects of networking. For instance, IP addresses and protocols are related to the Network Layer and Transport Layer where logical addressing and data transfer methods are established, while software applications operate at higher layers, focusing on user interaction and data processing. Understanding the role of the Physical Network Layer aids in grasping the foundational elements that support higher-level networking functions.