In which layer of the OSI model does encryption typically occur?

Encryption typically occurs in the transport layer of the OSI model. In this layer, protocols such as TLS (Transport Layer Security) and SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) are employed to secure data as it travels across the network. These protocols provide end-to-end encryption, ensuring that data is encrypted before it is transmitted and can only be decrypted by the intended recipient, thus protecting confidentiality and integrity.

While encryption can also occur at other layers, such as the application or data link layers, the transport layer is particularly significant for securing data in transit over a network. Application layer encryption (like HTTPS for web traffic) is also common, but it is fundamentally reliant on the transport layer for carrying the secured data.

In summary, the transport layer is crucial for implementing encryption at the point of data transfer between hosts, making it the best answer in the context of the OSI model.