OSI Model
The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model has seven layers:
1. Physical Layer: This is the foundational layer where raw data (bits) are
transmitted over physical media (e.g., cables, radio waves). Real-world example:
Ethernet cables transmitting data from a router to a computer.
2. Data Link Layer: Responsible for node-to-node data transfer and error
detection. It packages raw bits into frames for reliable transmission. Real-world
example: MAC (Media Access Control) addresses that help in identifying devices
on a local network.
3. Network Layer: Handles logical addressing and routing of data across multiple
networks. Real-world example: Routers use IP addresses to forward packets to
the correct destination network.
4. Transport Layer: Ensures reliable data transfer with protocols like TCP and UDP,
managing flow control and error correction. Real-world example: TCP controlling
packet order and delivery between two endpoints in web communication.
5. Session Layer: Manages sessions between applications, maintaining open
channels for data exchange. Real-world example: Video calls where sessions
need to be managed for seamless interaction.
6. Presentation Layer: Responsible for data translation, encryption, and
compression. Real-world example: SSL/TLS encrypting HTTP traffic to secure
online transactions.
7. Application Layer: This layer interfaces with the end-user. It provides protocols
for applications like HTTP (for websites), FTP (for file transfers), and SMTP (for
emails). Real-world example: A user browsing a website over HTTPS.
Diagram of OSI Model Layers
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Application
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Presentation
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Session
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Transport
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Network
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Data Link
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Physical
TCP/IP Model
The TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) model simplifies the
layers of the OSI model into four layers:
1. Application Layer: Combines the OSI application, presentation, and session
layers. It supports end-user protocols (e.g., HTTP, FTP, SMTP) for direct
communication with the application. Real-world example: Email services using
SMTP for sending messages.
2. Transport Layer: Maps directly to the OSI transport layer, focusing on reliable
data delivery through TCP and UDP. Real-world example: Streaming services
using UDP for faster data transmission.
3. Internet Layer: Matches the OSI network layer, handling logical addressing and
routing. Real-world example: IP routing across the internet to find the optimal
path to the destination.
4. Network Interface Layer: Combines the OSI physical and data link layers. It is
responsible for physical transmission of data across the network. Real-world
example: Wi-Fi protocols handling data transmission in a home network.
Diagram of TCP/IP Model Layers
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Application
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Transport
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Internet
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Network Interface
Interactions Between OSI and TCP/IP Models
While each model defines similar functions, they use different layer groupings. Here’s
how they interact:
• Application (TCP/IP) ⇄ Application, Presentation, Session (OSI): The TCP/IP
application layer communicates directly with the OSI model's top three layers
combined, handling tasks such as user requests and responses.
• Transport (Both): This layer is identical in both models, managing the reliability,
error correction, and sequencing of data.
• Internet (TCP/IP) ⇄ Network (OSI): The TCP/IP Internet layer handles routing
and IP addressing, equivalent to the OSI’s network layer.
• Network Interface (TCP/IP) ⇄ Data Link, Physical (OSI): The TCP/IP network
interface layer interacts with the OSI’s bottom two layers, ensuring data transfer
across the physical network.
Real-World Scenarios
1. Web Browsing (HTTP/HTTPS): The OSI application layer (or TCP/IP application
layer) enables the HTTP/HTTPS protocols for website access. The transport layer
(TCP) ensures reliable data transfer, while the Internet layer (IP) handles routing
to reach the website server.
2. Video Conferencing (VoIP): Video conferencing applications rely on the session
layer (OSI model) to manage ongoing communication, with the transport layer
(TCP or UDP) handling the reliable transfer of packets. UDP is often preferred for
real-time delivery, minimizing delay.
3. Email (SMTP): Emails use the application layer in both models (SMTP protocol)
to enable communication between email servers. TCP ensures messages are
delivered in the correct sequence without loss.
