What is the OSI seven-layer network model?
The OSI model stands for Open Systems Interconnection. Think of it as a conceptual framework that breaks down the functions of a networking system in a way that sets a standard and is easy to understand.
So instead of having to comprehend all sorts of highly technical computing functions that you may not be able to wrap your head around, you can use the OSI model to translate those complex functions into a universal set of rules.
OSI layers also support interoperability between different types of technologies, products, tools, and software solutions. To better illustrate the advantage of this, consider that in the past if IBM manufactured a computer, it would be able to communicate with another computer or networking device manufactured by IBM.
In this way, the OSI model created a common platform that both software developers and hardware manufacturers could use to generate networking products that could work with each other, rather than siloing everything between different companies.
This was best both for consumers and manufacturers. Something to note is that this model was developed at a time when network computing was still a new thing. In 1984, the OSI layers model was published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
The model is by no means perfect, but it’s still an excellent way to describe Network architecture even today. It does this by dividing the concept of data communication into seven abstract layers: Physical, Data Link, Network, Transport, Session, Presentation, and Application.
The broader impact of the OSI model
Some argue that the OSI model is obsolete because of its more theoretical layer, but because the model helps frame discussions of protocol and helps contrast various technologies, it’s likely to remain relevant for a long time to come.
- What is the OSI model? — OSI stands for Open Systems Interconnection. It’s a conceptual framework that splits the functions of a networking system into 7 layers that are easy to understand.
- The Seven OSI Layers — The layers include the Physical Layer, Data Link Layer, Network Layer, Transport Layer, Session Layer, Presentation Layer, and lastly, the application layer.
- OSI Model Use-Cases — While IT professionals and administrators are the ones who will engage with the OSI model most, it’s still useful to end-users and business people alike not just because of how it can help with network troubleshooting but also for how it breaks down network communication in an easy to understand way.
- Troubleshooting with the OSI Model — The OSI model helps with troubleshooting network issues by making it easy to investigate the problem step by step, analyzing the critical components of each layer, starting at the physical and then moving all the way up to the Application Layer. Network issues rarely stem from the Session or Presentation layers.
Managing your business’s Network Services
Understanding the OSI model can certainly help with DIY network troubleshooting, but that’s probably not a responsibility you want to deal with on top of managing the day-to-day of your business.
While it’s great to be able to handle your own network troubles, why not off-load that task to us with our Network & Wireless Connections service?
After all, a functioning network is a crucial component of your business’s IT security. Your network is the primary piece of infrastructure that facilitates access and delivers connectivity to all your servers, files, devices, and more. We’ll take a close look at your unique situation to come up with a working solution that fits the way you do business. Click here for a free consultation: www.commprise.com