What is typically included in the features of the Application layer?

The Application layer of a network architecture is primarily focused on enabling user applications to interact with the underlying network services. This layer includes protocols that are critical for sending and receiving information across the internet. These protocols allow for communication between different applications and devices, facilitating tasks such as web browsing, file transfer, and email communication.

For example, protocols such as HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol), FTP (File Transfer Protocol), and SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) fall within this layer and are essential for the effective exchange of data. They define the rules and conventions for initiating and maintaining communication sessions, which is fundamental to the functionality of networked applications.

Other options presented relate to different aspects of networking that do not specifically pertain to the core functions of the Application layer. Routing protocols, for instance, are mainly concerned with the paths data takes through the network and belong to the Network layer, while network infrastructure security is handled across different layers, including the Transport and Network layers. Data formatting rules can be part of the Application layer but do not capture the primary role of enabling communication between applications as effectively as the correct choice. Therefore, the inclusion of protocols for sending and receiving information encapsulates the essential features of the Application layer accurately.