Networking Notes – Notebook 2 (8 Pages)
OSI Model (Open Systems Interconnection)
Page 1 – Introduction to the OSI Model
What is the OSI Model?
The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) Model is a conceptual framework developed by the
International Organization for Standardization (ISO) to standardize how computers
communicate over a network.
The model divides network communication into seven layers, with each layer performing a
specific function.
Objectives
Standardize network communication.
Improve compatibility between devices.
Simplify troubleshooting.
Support different hardware and software vendors.
Seven Layers
1. Physical Layer
2. Data Link Layer
3. Network Layer
4. Transport Layer
5. Session Layer
6. Presentation Layer
7. Application Layer
Memory Trick
Please Do Not Throw Sausage Pizza Away
Page 2 – Layer 1: Physical Layer
The Physical Layer is responsible for transmitting raw bits over a physical medium.
Functions
Sends and receives binary data (0s and 1s).
Defines cables, connectors, voltage levels, and transmission speed.
Converts digital data into electrical, optical, or radio signals.
Devices
Hub
Repeater
Network cables
Fiber optic cable
Examples
Ethernet cable
Fiber optic cable
Wi-Fi radio signals
Unit of Data
Bits
Page 3 – Layer 2: Data Link Layer
The Data Link Layer provides reliable communication between devices on the same network.
Functions
Error detection
Frame synchronization
MAC addressing
Flow control
Devices
Switch
Bridge
Protocols
Ethernet (IEEE 802.3)
Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11)
Address Used
MAC Address
Unit of Data
Frame
Page 4 – Layer 3: Network Layer
The Network Layer determines the best path for data to travel between different networks.
Functions
Logical addressing
Routing
Packet forwarding
Path selection
Devices
Router
Layer 3 Switch
Protocols
IPv4
IPv6
ICMP
OSPF
RIP
Address Used
IP Address
Unit of Data
Packet
Page 5 – Layer 4: Transport Layer
The Transport Layer ensures reliable end-to-end communication.
Functions
Segmentation
Error recovery
Flow control
Reliability
Protocols
TCP (Transmission Control Protocol)
Reliable
Error checking
Used for websites, email, file transfer
UDP (User Datagram Protocol)
Faster
No error recovery
Used for video streaming, gaming, VoIP
Unit of Data
Segment
Page 6 – Layers 5 & 6
Layer 5 – Session Layer
Functions
Establishes communication sessions
Maintains sessions
Terminates sessions
Authentication
Examples
Remote login
Video conferencing
Layer 6 – Presentation Layer
Functions
Data formatting
Encryption
Decryption
Data compression
Examples
SSL/TLS Encryption
JPEG
PNG
MP3
Page 7 – Layer 7: Application Layer
The Application Layer is the layer closest to the user.
Functions
Provides network services to applications.
Enables web browsing, email, and file transfer.
Common Protocols
HTTP
HTTPS
FTP
SMTP
POP3
IMAP
DNS
DHCP
Examples
Google Chrome
Microsoft Outlook
Web browsers
Email clients
Unit of Data
Data
Page 8 – OSI Model Summary &
Troubleshooting
OSI Layers Summary
Layer Name Device/Protocol Data Unit
7 Application HTTP, FTP, SMTP Data
6 Presentation SSL, JPEG Data
5 Session NetBIOS Data
4 Transport TCP, UDP Segment
3 Network IP, Router Packet
2 Data Link Switch, MAC Frame
1 Physical Hub, Cable Bits
Advantages of the OSI Model
Standardizes networking.
Simplifies troubleshooting.
Promotes interoperability.
Makes network design modular.
Quick Review
The OSI model has 7 layers.
The Physical Layer transmits bits.
The Data Link Layer uses MAC addresses.
The Network Layer uses IP addresses and routing.
The Transport Layer uses TCP and UDP.
The Application Layer provides services directly to users.
Remember the order: Please Do Not Throw Sausage Pizza Away.