OSI_Model_Layers
OSI_Model_Layers
1. Physical Layer
Function:
- Deals with the physical connection between devices.
- Transfers raw bits (0s and 1s) over the network.
- Defines cables, switches, frequencies, voltages, and signals.
Example:
- Ethernet cables, fiber optics, radio waves (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth).
- Plugging an Ethernet cable into a laptop.
Function:
- Ensures error-free data transfer between adjacent network nodes.
- Uses MAC (Media Access Control) addresses to identify devices.
- Handles framing, error detection, and flow control.
Example:
- Wi-Fi router assigning MAC addresses to connected devices.
Function:
- Handles IP addressing and routing of data between different networks.
- Determines the best path for data to travel.
- Breaks data into packets and forwards them to the next hop.
Example:
- Visiting www.google.com involves routing through different networks using IP
addresses.
4. Transport Layer
Function:
- Ensures complete and accurate data transfer between devices.
- Provides error detection, retransmission, and flow control.
- Uses TCP (reliable) and UDP (fast but unreliable).
Example:
- TCP: Downloading a file (ensures all parts arrive correctly).
- UDP: Live streaming a video (focuses on speed over accuracy).
5. Session Layer
Function:
- Establishes, maintains, and terminates sessions (connections).
- Synchronizes communication between devices.
Example:
- Logging into an online banking website – session expires if inactive.
- A Zoom meeting maintaining an active connection.
Devices & Protocols:
- Protocols: NetBIOS, RPC (Remote Procedure Call), SMPP.
6. Presentation Layer
Function:
- Converts data into a format understandable by the receiver.
- Handles encryption, decryption, compression, and encoding.
Example:
- SSL/TLS encryption for secure websites (HTTPS).
- JPEG, MP3, MPEG for image, audio, and video compression.
7. Application Layer
Function:
- Provides network services directly to end users.
- Handles applications like web browsing, email, file transfer.
Example:
- Using Google Chrome to browse the internet (uses HTTP/HTTPS).
- Sending an email via Gmail (uses SMTP).