Final answer:
In networking, the process of adding a header to the data from the layer above is called encapsulation, serving to ensure the data can be correctly sent and received within a network.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process of adding a header to the data inherited from the layer above in network communications is called encapsulation. This is a fundamental concept in networking where each layer of the network model adds its own header information to the data it receives from the layer above. Encapsulation is akin to placing a letter inside an envelope with an address on it; similarly, data gets a 'header' which contains important information to help it reach its destination correctly.