What happens to the data link layer during the encapsulation process?

During the encapsulation process, the data link layer takes the network layer's packet and encapsulates it into a frame by adding a header and a footer. The header typically includes the source and destination MAC addresses, while the footer often contains a frame check sequence for error detection. This framing allows the data link layer to manage the physical transmission of data over the network medium, ensuring that frames are properly formatted for transmission. Ultimately, this process prepares the data for reliable delivery across the physical network.