Reference Models in Computer Networks

The most important reference models are:

1. OSI reference model.
2. TCP/IP reference model.

Introduction to OSI Model

There are many users who use computer network and are located all over the world. To ensure national and worldwide data communication ISO (ISO stands for International Organization of Standardization.) developed this model. This is called a model for open system interconnection (OSI) and is normally called as OSI model. The OSI model architecture consists of seven layers. It defines seven layers or levels in a complete communication system. OSI Reference model is explained in other chapter.

Following are the different levels of the OSI reference model in computer network.

1. Physical Address
2. Datalink Layer
3. Network Layer
4. Transport Layer
5. Session Layer
6. Presentation Layer
7. Application Layer

Introduction to TCP/IP Reference Model

TCP/IP stands for transmission control protocol and internet protocol. Protocols are set of rules which govern every possible communication over the internet. These protocols describe the movement of data between the host computers or internet and offers simple naming and addressing schemes.

TCP/IP Reference model is explained in details other chapter.