A full guide to the 7 layers


of the OSI model

What is the OSI model
The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model divides networking into seven

separate “layers.”

The OSI model was first published in 1984 by the International Organization

for Standardization. The organization sought to create a standardized language

for network analysis and communication, allowing different devices and networks

to transmit data smoothly.

How does the OSI model work?

The OSI reference model flows downwards from Level 7 (the Application Layer) to Level
1 (the Physical Layer), and they communicate with each other.

The layer where users interact with data using software


7 Application
to allow network-facing apps to function.

Manipulates data and turns it from a bitstream into data that

6 Presentation
apps can decode and use.

Responsible for commencing communication between devices

5 Session
and determining session length and transmitted data accuracy.

Establishes direct communication between connected

4 Transport
devices by assessing the correct speed for data transmission.

The layer where data is sent between connected devices

3 Network
within established stable network connections.

Refers to communication between locally-connected devices

2 Data Link
like on-premise workstations and routers.

Covers the physical infrastructure and equipment needed


1 Physical
to transfer digital bitstream-converted data.

This stacked construction makes sense from a troubleshooting perspective. Engineers

can isolate problems at the network or application layer. Or they might look at physical
medium issues such as cabling.

A full guide to the 7 layers of the OSI model 02

Importance of OSI model
Troubleshooting. The OSI hierarchy is a good shorthand for detecting network
flaws. Technicians can use the model to detect network-wide problems, application
issues, or faults in physical equipment. OSI provides a clear way to break problems
down into manageable chunks.

Marketing. The OSI layer model allows software and hardware vendors to describe
the functions of products. Marketers can clearly explain to buyers where their
products fit into the OSI hierarchy. Buyers can understand how those products

will fit into the network architecture.

Software development. The OSI model helps developers during the planning and
coding phases. Developers can model how applications will function at specific
layers. The layer model guides how apps will interact with other network
components.

Security awareness. The OSI system helps security teams identify vulnerabilities.
They can classify risks by OSI layers, locate where data rests in the network, and
assign protective controls for data security. OSI layers also assist in staging secure
cloud migrations.

Pros and cons of the OSI model

A dvantages Disadvantages

Helps with sourcing hardware Most networking experts argue

and software to build network that the OSI system is outdated.
architecture. The division of network
structures into seven different
Assists IT teams
 layers no longer makes sense

in understanding how network in the internet and cloud
components communicate. computing age. The internet
Allows experts to troubleshoot generally suits the TCP/IP
network problems. model more closely than OSI.

A full guide to the 7 layers of the OSI model 03

 Makes it easier to develop tools The 7-layer model may feature
that can communicate with redundant elements.

those from other vendors. For instance, the Session Layer
and Presentation Layer may

Provides a way to communicate not have practical relevance

how software and hardware real-world networks.
operate in networks. Allows
technicians to talk to outsiders Some network functions reach
with a reasonable degree
 across OSI layers, creating
of accuracy. unnecessary confusion.

7 layers of the OSI model and their functions

This layer handles user interaction with data. It focuses
Layer 7
on software that allows network-facing applications

The Application Layer to operate, managing protocols like SMTP and HTTP.

It prepares data for use or transmission within

the OSI model.

The Presentation layer converts raw data into a usable

Layer 6
format for the application layer. It ensures secure and
The Presentation Layer efficient data transmission through encryption and
compression.

The Session layer starts, manages, and ends data

Layer 5
sessions between devices. It sets rules for data
The Session Layer transmission and authentication, ensuring efficient

and secure data exchange with minimal resource use.

The Transport layer ensures reliable communication

Layer 4
between devices. It manages data integrity, flow control,
The Transport Layer and error correction. It adjusts transmission speeds and
requests retransmission if errors occur. Key protocols
like TCP handle these tasks.

A full guide to the 7 layers of the OSI model 04

 The Network layer handles data transmission across
Layer 3
networks. It manages packet segmentation and
The Network Layer reassembly and determines the best routing paths

for data. This layer is crucial for maintaining stable
connections and efficient data flow.

The Data Link layer manages local device

Layer 2
communication by breaking data into frames for nearby
The Data Link Layer transmission. It has two sub-layers:
The Media Access Control (MAC) layer handles local
device connections and flow rates.
The Logical Link Control (LLC) layer establishes

the framework for local data transmission.
This layer works closely with the Network Layer,
especially in troubleshooting network issues, as it
regulates data flows between local devices.

The Physical layer involves the physical components

Layer 1
needed for data transfer, such as cables, switches, and
The Physical Layer routers. It converts data into digital bitstreams

for transmission, ensuring devices agree on the format
for accurate data reconstruction. This layer primarily
focuses on network troubleshooting, dealing with
issues like cable connections and power supply faults,
which are common but often easily resolved.

Cross-layer functions
M any applications or services bridge different layers in the OSI hierarchy. These services
are called cross-layer functions.

C ross-layer functions include critical services that affect multiple parts of the data
transmission process. Examples could include:

A full guide to the 7 layers of the OSI model 05

 Security management tools to configure and monitor
communications between network devices.

Multi-protocol label switching (MPLS) services to carry data

frames between networks.

Protocols that translate IP addresses into MAC addresses

work across the data link and network layers.

Domain Name System (DNS) lookup services.

General security architecture recommended by ITU’s x.800

standard.

Cross-layer functions tend to deliver security, availability, or reliability. They work across
network layers to regulate and monitor traffic, ensuring data security and resolving
problems as they arise. Because of this, cross-layer services are a core part of network
security planning.

A full guide to the 7 layers of the OSI model 06

OSI model vs TCP IP model
OSI Model TCP/IP Model
Application Layer

Presentation Layer Application Layer

Session Layer

Transport Layer Transport Layer

Network Layer Internet Layer

Data Link Layer

Network Interface Layer
Physical Layer

The TCP/IP model, developed by the US Department of Defense in the 1970s, is

a foundational framework for internet communication, predating the OSI model.

TCP/IP is often seen as more relevant for describing network environments,

especially with the rise of the internet as the primary telecommunication form.

The main structural difference is in layering: TCP/IP combines OSI's layers 5-7
into a single application layer and layers 1 and 2 into a Network Interface Layer,
resulting in fewer layers.

TCP/IP is particularly suited for networks operating over the public internet and
for modeling internet communication protocols directly.

While OSI provides a general model for network communication without

specifying protocols, TCP/IP focuses on practical operations and real-world
applications.

A full guide to the 7 layers of the OSI model 07

 Both models offer valuable insights for security architects in network product
comparison, troubleshooting, and visualizing network security concepts.

How can NordLayer help?

The OSI model is essential for understanding how to optimize network security.
NordLayer’s SASE and Zero Trust-based security products work at various levels

of the OSI hierarchy, delivering cross-layer security functions.


Clients can configure security solutions for multi-cloud and mainly on-premises
environments. NordLayer’s tools will help ensure top-notch security wherever a data
transfer takes place.

Apply VPN encryption and anonymization up to Layer 7 of the OSI model.

Segment network assets at Layer 3 to regulate access.

Use NordLayer products to lock down processes at every OSI layer.

Together, we'll find a way to solve your cybersecurity concerns.

Get in touch with NordLayer today

A full guide to the 7 layers of the OSI model 08

About NordLayer
NordLayer is an adaptive network access security solution for modern businesses,
supporting all ways of working. From the world’s most trusted cybersecurity brand,
Nord Security, we help CEOs, CIOs, and IT admins easily handle their network
scaling challenges.

Learn more about NordLayer

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