OSI Model – Class 11 IT 802 Notes
The OSI Model (Open Systems Interconnection) is a 7-layer networking model that explains
how data travels from one device to another.
It helps in:
● Understanding data communication
● Standardizing network functions
● Troubleshooting network problems
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Seven Layers of the OSI Model
1️⃣ Physical Layer (Layer 1)
🔹 Deals with hardware
🔹 Transmits raw bits (0s and 1s)
Functions:
● Cables, switches, hubs
● Electrical signals
● Data rate (speed)
● Physical connections
Devices: Hub, NIC, cables
2️⃣ Data Link Layer (Layer 2)
🔹 Responsible for error detection and correction
🔹 Ensures data reaches the next device safely
Functions:
● MAC address
● Frame formation
● Flow control
● Error control
Devices: Switch, bridge
Sub-layers:
● LLC (Logical Link Control)
● MAC (Media Access Control)
3️⃣ Network Layer (Layer 3)
🔹 Handles routing of data
🔹 Decides the best path to send data
Functions:
● IP addressing
● Routing packets
● Logical addressing
Devices: Router
Example protocol: IP (Internet Protocol)
4️⃣ Transport Layer (Layer 4)
🔹 Provides reliable data delivery end to end
Functions:
● Segmentation and reassembly
● Error recovery
● Flow control
● Connection management
Protocols:
● TCP (Reliable)
● UDP (Fast, no guarantee)
5️⃣ Session Layer (Layer 5)
🔹 Manages sessions (connections) between devices
Functions:
● Session creation
● Session maintenance
● Session termination
Example: video conferencing session
6️⃣ Presentation Layer (Layer 6)
🔹 Prepares data for the application layer
🔹 Converts data into a usable format
Functions:
● Encryption / Decryption
● Compression
● Data translation (ASCII, JPEG, MP3)
7️⃣ Application Layer (Layer 7)
🔹 Closest to the user
🔹 Provides network services to applications
Examples:
● Email (SMTP)
● Web browsing (HTTP/HTTPS)
● File transfer (FTP)
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OSI Model Summary Table
Layer Name Key Function Example
7 Application User services HTTP, FTP, SMTP
6 Presentation Data format, JPEG, SSL
encryption
5 Session Session management Video call
4 Transport End-to-end delivery TCP, UDP
3 Network Routing, IP Router, IP
addressing
2 Data Link MAC, error detection Switch, MAC
1 Physical Signals, hardware Cable,
Exam-Style Questions
Short Answer
1. What is the OSI model?
2. Name any three layers of the OSI model.
3. What is the function of the transport layer?
4. What does the data link layer do?
5. Which layer is responsible for encryption?
Long Answer
1. Explain the 7 layers of the OSI model.
2. Differentiate between physical layer and data link layer.
3. Explain the functions of the network layer with examples.