WHAT IS THE OSI MODEL?
THE 7 LAYERS EXPLAINED
The Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model is a conceptual framework that divides
network communication into seven abstract layers, providing a standardized approach
for different computer systems, applications, and network devices to communicate
across networks.
Developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the OSI model
addresses communication incompatibilities between diverse networking protocols. It
provides developers and engineers with a structured approach to building interoperable
hardware and software for computer networking.
At each layer, the model defines how data flows from physical transmission to
application interfaces.
THE THREE CATEGORIES OF OSI LAYERS
Data moves bidirectionally through these layers.
Software layers (Layers 5–7): Handle software-level transmissions.
Transport layer (Layer 4): Bridges software and hardware.
Hardware layers (Layers 1–3): Handle physical transmission.
THE SEVEN LAYERS OF THE OSI MODEL
Layer 7: Application
Layer 6: Presentation
Layer 5: Session
Layer 4: Transport
Layer 3: Network
Layer 2: Data Link
Layer 1: Physical
LAYER 1: PHYSICAL LAYER
Defines the electrical and physical specifications for data transmission, including cables,
signals, and hardware components.
LAYER 2: DATA LINK LAYER
Ensures error-free data transfer between devices on the same network and organizes
data into frames.
LAYER 3: NETWORK LAYER
Handles logical addressing and path determination, enabling data routing between
networks.
LAYER 4: TRANSPORT LAYER
Ensures reliable end-to-end data delivery using protocols like TCP and UDP.
LAYER 5: SESSION LAYER
Manages communication sessions between devices, including setup and termination.
LAYER 6: PRESENTATION LAYER
Translates data formats, handles encryption, and compresses data for transmission.
LAYER 7: APPLICATION LAYER
Provides network services directly to user applications such as browsers and email
clients.
NETWORK SEGMENTATION
Segmentation divides a network into smaller parts to improve security, performance,
and manageability.
TYPES OF IP ADDRESS
IPv4 and IPv6 are the two main versions. IPs can be public or private, static or dynamic.
SOFTWARE-DEFINED NETWORKING VS TRADITIONAL NETWORKING
SDN is software-based, offering flexibility and centralized control, while traditional
networking relies on hardware infrastructure.
NETWORK FUNCTIONS VIRTUALIZATION (NFV)
NFV moves network functions from hardware to virtual machines, improving scalability
and reducing costs.