Computer Networks
OSI model
Jacek Mochyla (MA, MBA)
Lecture 3
Kahoot Quiz
Inspiration 1
[Link]
Credit to: RealPars
Inspiration 2
[Link]
Credit to: NetworkChuck
History of the OSI Model
The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) Model was
developed by the International Organization for Standardization
(ISO) in the 1970s and 1980s. It emerged as a response to the
growing need to standardize communication in diverse and
increasingly complex computer networks.
At that time, many computer networks used proprietary,
incompatible protocols, making communication between
different systems difficult.
OSI Model – sender vs. receiver
OSI Model vs. TCP/IP Model
OSI Model vs. Functions
OSI Model – data encapsulation & de-encapsulation
OSI Model – Functions & Practical Examples
OSI Model 7 Layers Explained
Credit to: Lifewire / Colleen Tighe
Physical Layer
Functions: Transmission of raw bits over a physical
medium.
Components: Copper cables, fiber optics, radio waves, modems.
Examples: Ethernet standards (copper cables), Wi-Fi (radio
waves).
This layer defines physical parameters like voltage, frequency, and
transmission speed.
Data Link Layer
Functions: Ensures error-free data transfer between
neighboring network nodes, physical addressing.
Components: MAC addresses, bridges, switches.
Examples: Ethernet, PPP (Point-to-Point Protocol).
Introduces frames, which are transmitted from sender to receiver,
and provides mechanisms for error detection and correction.
Network Layer
Functions: Determines the route for data transmission
in complex, multi-access networks.
Components: Routers, routing protocols.
Examples: IP (Internet Protocol), ICMP for diagnostics.
Data can be sent using two communication models: connection-
oriented (with a virtual network connection) or connectionless
(where each packet is sent independently and may arrive out of order).
Above the network layer, all processes operate only on end systems,
not intermediary network devices.
Transport Layer
Functions: Provides reliable, in-order data delivery
between endpoints.
Components: TCP (for reliability), UDP (for speed).
Examples: TCP guarantees delivery, while UDP is used for streaming.
Responsible for breaking data into packets, reassembling them, and ensuring
the integrity of communication by retransmitting lost or duplicated packets
and controlling their order and priority.
Session Layer
Functions: Manages communication sessions
between applications.
Components: APIs that allow applications to open, manage, and close
sessions.
Examples: NFS, SQL, RPC.
Provides mechanisms for controlling data sessions, defining session modes,
and resuming interrupted sessions.
Presentation Layer
Functions: Translates data between network format
and format understandable by the application.
Components: Encryption, compression, data format conversion protocols.
Examples: SSL/TLS, MIME.
Converts data from the application to a canonical form and ensures that
lower layers receive data in the same format.
Application Layer
Functions: Provides end-user and application
access to network services.
Components: Client-server applications and processes.
Examples: HTTP (web browsing), FTP (file transfer), SMTP (email).
The application layer serves as the interface between the application and the
network, and communication happens through lower layers until the message
is received by the server.
Comparison with the TCP/IP Model
Similarities:
Both models provide layers to manage different aspects of network communication.
The transport and network layers perform similar functions in both models.
Differences:
OSI has 7 layers, whereas TCP/IP has 4.
OSI is more theoretical and focused on standards, while TCP/IP is practical and based on
protocols used in the internet.
OSI separates application, presentation, and session layers, while TCP/IP combines them
into one application layer.
Significance of the OSI Model
Standardization of Communication: The OSI model provided a reference framework
for hardware and software developers, enabling the creation of compatible and
interoperable network solutions.
Modularity: The layered approach made it easier to design networks, allowing
independent development and modification of each layer.
Troubleshooting: The clear separation of network functions into layers facilitated
troubleshooting and network problem resolution.
Education and Training: OSI became a standard educational tool in teaching
computer networks, helping students understand complex network processes.
Influence on Other Models: The OSI model significantly influenced the development of
other network models, including TCP/IP, which became the foundation of the internet.
Practical Importance of the OSI Model
Though in practice, the OSI model has largely been replaced by the TCP/IP model, its
influence is still evident.
OSI serves as an educational and theoretical tool that aids in understanding and
designing network systems and is still used in specialized network applications and
standards.
In summary, the OSI model played a key role in standardizing and developing computer
networks, becoming a cornerstone in the education and development of networking
technology.
Its layered structure continues to help in understanding and managing the complexity
of communication systems.
Books
"Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach" by James F. Kurose and Keith W.
Ross
Why it's useful: This book takes a top-down approach to networking, starting from the
application layer and moving down to the physical layer. It provides clear explanations of
the OSI and TCP/IP models with real-world examples.
Key topics covered: OSI model, TCP/IP stack, application, transport, network layers,
network protocols.
"Data Communications and Networking" by Behrouz A. Forouzan
Why it's useful: A solid introduction to networking, focusing on the OSI model and
networking protocols in a simple, easy-to-understand language. It's ideal for beginners
and students in IT.
Key topics covered: OSI model, network devices, data link layer, transport layer,
Academic Papers
"A Brief History of the OSI Model" by Tarek S. Sobh (IEEE Communications Society)
Why it's useful: This paper provides an overview of the history and development of the OSI
model, offering insights into its significance and evolution over time.
Key topics covered: OSI model history, comparison with TCP/IP, importance in networking.
"The Impact of the OSI Model on Modern Networking" (Published in Journal of Network and
Systems Management)
Why it's useful: This paper explores the influence of the OSI model on the design of modern
networks, analyzing its theoretical foundations and practical applications.
Key topics covered: OSI model, network architecture, practical applications in modern
networking.
