Which OSI model layer deals with session management?

The layer of the OSI model that specifically handles session management is the Session Layer. This layer is responsible for establishing, maintaining, and terminating communication sessions between applications. It plays a crucial role in managing the dialogues between two systems, allowing for control over the conversation and ensuring that it proceeds in a structured manner. This includes managing the opening and closing of sessions, and handling the exchange of data during the course of a session to ensure that the communication can resume seamlessly if interrupted.

In contrast, the Application Layer focuses primarily on providing network services to end-user applications, while the Presentation Layer is concerned with the translation of data formats and encryption/decryption tasks. The Network Layer is responsible for routing and forwarding packets of data across different networks. Each of these layers serves distinct purposes, but it is the Session Layer that is directly tied to the management of sessions in network communication.