Which of the following correctly describes the function of encapsulation in networking?

Encapsulation in networking is primarily the process of wrapping data with protocol headers and sometimes trailers before transmission. This procedure is essential for ensuring that data is properly formatted and contains the necessary information for the receiving device to interpret it correctly. Each layer of the OSI model adds its own header, allowing protocols to manage data as it travels through a network. For example, when data is sent from a source to a destination, the transport layer will add a header to indicate the port number, while the network layer adds information pertaining to the source and destination IP addresses. This systematic layering makes encapsulation vital for reliable communication in networking environments, enabling devices to communicate efficiently and effectively.