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The OSI Model Module 3

The document introduces the ISO/OSI model, which defines how different computer networks can interconnect through a standardized framework consisting of seven layers. Each layer, from the Physical layer to the Application layer, serves distinct functions while being independent yet interdependent on the layers above and below. The OSI model is essential for managing complex data communications and ensuring compatibility across various systems.

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dwint
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2 views

The OSI Model Module 3

The document introduces the ISO/OSI model, which defines how different computer networks can interconnect through a standardized framework consisting of seven layers. Each layer, from the Physical layer to the Application layer, serves distinct functions while being independent yet interdependent on the layers above and below. The OSI model is essential for managing complex data communications and ensuring compatibility across various systems.

Uploaded by

dwint
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Wolmer’s High School for Girls

CAPE Computer Science Unit 2

Upper 6th Teacher: Mrs. McCallum-Rodney

THE OSI MODEL

This section serves as an introduction to the International Standards Organization/Open System


Interconnection (ISO/OSI) model. It is used to define the ways in which different computer
networks may be connected to each other. Without standards such as this, it would be
impossible to work towards the idea of a global communications network.

The ISO OSI model forms the basis of all the interconnections for most of the modern packet
switching networks. These special network protocols are needed to make sure that the
enormously complex data communications between different systems are manageable.

Trying to form a standard for the interconnection of different communication systems is no easy
task. The model therefore simplifies things to some extent by breaking down this huge task into
seven different sub-tasks. Each sub-task goes progressively from the most fundamental aspects
such where the wires are to be connected (called the physical layer) right up to the application
layer which gives high-level support for applications making use of the network.

The OSI model defines a networking framework for implementing protocols according to seven
layers. Each layer is functionally independent of the others, but provides services to the layer
above it and receives services from the layer below it. The seven OSI layers are explained in
more detail below.

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APPLICATION
This is the highest level of the OSI Model and defines the interface through which the users’
applications (or programs) gain access to the communications services.

The Application layer is the layer at which applications access network services. This layer
represents the services that directly support applications such as software for file transfers,
database access, email, and network games.

PRESENTATION
This layer deals with how the information to be represented is presented. It will provide the
appropriate transfer to the agreed ‘transfer syntax’, that is, the syntax that all the
communications systems will understand no matter who manufactured them.

The Presentation layer translates data from the Application layer into a network format (and
vice-versa). This layer also manages security issues by providing services such as data
encryption and compression.

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SESSION
The Session layer allows applications on different computers to establish, use, and end a
session/connection. This layer establishes dialog control between the two computers in a session,
regulating which side transmits, and when and how long it transmits.

This layer undertakes the management of communications sessions between two different
systems. It deals with things such as synchronization and requesting permission to send the dta,
etc.

TRANSPORT
This layer matches the Network layer to the Session Layer. It will provide functions such as
trying to work out the cheapest route, determine the optimum size of each unit to be sent,
and also provides some extra error recovery.

The Transport layer handles error recognition and recovery. It also repackages long messages
when necessary into small packets for transmission and at the receiving end, rebuilds packets
into the original message. The receiving Transport layer also sends receipt acknowledgments.

NETWORK
This is the layer that gives the system the ability to be linked to other types of network so that a
much larger more comprehensive network can be made up. We are now dealing with
communications across networks by routing, switching and other methods of connection.

The Network layer addresses messages and translates logical addresses and names into physical
addresses. It also determines the route from the source to the destination computer and manages
traffic problems (flow control), such as switching, routing, and controlling the congestion of data
packets.

DATA LINK
This layer provides for transfer of data between two devices that are connected together, perhaps
on the same LAN. It allows data to be transferred in such a way that it’s possible to detect any
error in the transmission, and also provides synchronization.

The Data Link layer packages raw bits from the Physical layer into frames (logical, structures
packets for data). This layer is responsible for transferring frames from one computer to another,
without errors. After sending a frame, it waits for an acknowledgment from the receiving
computer.

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PHYSICAL
This is the specification of the electronic and mechanical connections, ie the nuts and bolts of
which wires go, where and what types of electrical signals will be used.

It is therefore the physical environment for the physical systems that carry the stream of data
between different points on the network. This layer provides the interface between the data and
the actual hardware connection (such as plug and sockets)

The Physical layer transmits bits from one computer to another and regulates the transmission of
a stream of bits over a physical medium. This layer defines how the cable is attached to the
network adapter and what transmission technique is used to send data over the cable.

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