OSI Model

The OSI (Open System Interconnection) model is a is a conceptual framework used to understand and standardize the functions of a telecommunications or computing system. It divides the communication process into seven distinct layers, each responsible for a specific aspect of data communication between two or more devices in a network. Here's a brief overview of the seven layers:

1. Application Layer: The topmost layer interacts directly with the end-user or application software. It provides network services such as email, file transfer, and web browsing.

2. Presentation Layer: Responsible for data translation, encryption, and compression. It ensures that data is formatted and presented correctly for the application layer.

3. Session Layer: Provides end-to-end communication between devices, ensuring data delivery and error recovery. It divides large messages into smaller segments and reassembles them at the receiving end.

4. Transport Layer: Provides end-to-end communication between devices, ensuring data delivery and error recovery. It divides large messages into smaller segments and reassembles them at the receiving end.

5. Network Layer: Handles routing and forwarding of data packets between different networks. It determines the optimal path for data transmission based on network conditions.

6. Data Link Layer: Responsible for establishing, maintaining, and terminating connections between devices. It ensures data integrity by detecting and correcting errors.

7. Physical Layer: This layer deals with the physical transmission of data over the network medium, including cables, connectors, and signals.

The OSI model serves as a reference framework for understanding network protocols and designing interoperable communication systems. While it provides a conceptual foundation, real-world network architectures often implement a simplified version of the OSI model or use alternative models such as the TCP/IP model.