Data Communication and Computer Networks

5. Explain ISO OSI, seven layer network architecture giving the functions of each layer.

Answer:
In order for a computer to send information to another computer, and for that computer to receive and understand
the information, there has to exist a set of rules or standard for this communication process. These standards
ensure that varying devices and products can communicate with each other over any network. This set of
standards is called a model.
The International Standards Organization (ISO) has been created an industry wide model, or framework, for
defining the rules networks should employ to ensure reliable communications. This network model is broken into
layers, with each layer having a distinctive job in the communication process.

Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) Model Overview

The Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model began as a reference model, but has since been implemented.
It was created by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) to provide a logical framework for how
data communication processes should interact across networks. Standards were created for the computer
industry allowing different networks to work together efficiently.

OSI Model Layers

The OSI Model consists of the following seven layers:
1. Application
2. Presentation
3. Session
4. Transport
5. Network
6. Data Link
7. Physical

What do the 7 layers really do?

There are 7 layers in the OSI model. Each layer is responsible for a particular aspect of data communication. For
example, one layer may be responsible for establishing connections between devices, while another layer may
be responsible for error checking during transfer.
The layers of the OSI model are divided into two groups: the upper layer and lower layer. The upper layers focus
on user applications and how files are represented on the computers prior to transport. For the most part,
network engineers are more concerned with the lower layers. It's the lower layers that concentrate on how the
communication across a network actually occurs.

Functions of each layer.

Layer 7: The application layer-This is the layer at which communication partners are identified, quality of service
is identified, user authentication and privacy are considered, and any constraints on data syntax are identified.
(This layer is not the application itself, although some applications may perform application layer functions.)
Layer 6: The presentation layer- This is a layer, usually part of an operating system, that converts incoming and
outgoing data from one presentation format to another (for example, from a text stream into a pop-up window
with the newly arrived text). Sometimes called the syntax layer.
Layer 5: The session layer- This layer sets up, coordinates, and terminates conversations, exchanges, and
dialogs between the applications at each end. It deals with session and connection coordination.
Layer 4: The transport layer- This layer manages the end-to-end control (for example, determining whether all
packets have arrived) and error-checking. It ensures complete data transfer.
Layer 3: The network layer- This layer handles the routing of the data (sending it in the right direction to the right
destination on outgoing transmissions and receiving incoming transmissions at the packet level). The network
layer does routing and forwarding.
Layer 2: The data-link layer- This layer provides synchronization for the physical level and does bit-stuffing for
strings of 1's in excess of 5. It furnishes transmission protocol knowledge and management.
Layer 1: The physical layer- This layer conveys the bit stream through the network at the electrical and
mechanical level. It provides the hardware means of sending and receiving data on a carrier

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