OSI vs TCP/IP: Understanding Network Layers 30/03/2023 – Posted in: Network – Tags: , , , ,

Time to Read: 4 minutes.

When it comes to computer networking, the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model and the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) suite are two of the most widely used frameworks for understanding how data is transmitted over a network. While both models are used to describe the layers of a network, they have some key differences in how they categorize and define these layers.

Understanding the OSI Model

The OSI model was developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in the 1980s as a way to standardize networking protocols across different manufacturers and systems. The OSI model consists of seven layers, each of which has a specific function in the data transmission process. These layers are:

  1. Physical layer
  2. Data link layer
  3. Network layer
  4. Transport layer
  5. Session layer
  6. Presentation layer
  7. Application layer

Each layer is responsible for a different aspect of the data transmission process, such as addressing, routing, error correction, and data encryption.

Understanding TCP/IP

The TCP/IP suite is a set of protocols that is used to transmit data over the internet. Unlike the OSI model, which has seven layers, TCP/IP only has four layers. These layers are:

  1. Network Access layer
  2. Internet layer
  3. Transport layer
  4. Application layer

The network access layer is responsible for transmitting data between devices on the same network, while the internet layer handles routing data between different networks. The transport layer is responsible for managing connections between applications, while the application layer is where applications interact with the network.

Links to OSI vs TCP/IP Resources

If you’re interested in learning more about the OSI model and TCP/IP suite, there are a wealth of resources available online. Here are a few links to get you started: