Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) Networking Practice Exam

The Presentation layer is specifically responsible for data encryption within the OSI model. This layer serves as the translator or the intermediary between the application layer and the layer responsible for the transport of data. Its primary functions include translating data formats, data compression, and data encryption.

Encryption is a critical aspect of data security, and it is often applied at the Presentation layer to ensure that the data being transmitted is not easily readable by unauthorized entities. In this layer, data can be transformed into a secure format before being sent over the network, allowing for the protection of sensitive information.

This layer is responsible for data representation, making sure that data is readable by the receiving application, regardless of the systems involved. When data is encrypted, it often involves converting plain text into cipher text, which ensures confidentiality and security during transmission. Thus, choosing the Presentation layer as the answer highlights its pivotal role in managing data security through encryption.