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Networking Beginner

What is OSI Model?

The seven-layer Open Systems Interconnection model that standardizes network communication functions from physical transmission to application protocols.

The OSI model divides networking into seven abstraction layers: Layer 1 Physical (cables, signals), Layer 2 Data Link (Ethernet frames, MAC addresses), Layer 3 Network (IP packets, routing), Layer 4 Transport (TCP/UDP segments, ports), Layer 5 Session (connection management), Layer 6 Presentation (encryption, compression), and Layer 7 Application (HTTP, DNS, SMTP). Each layer serves the layer above it and is served by the layer below. While the internet primarily follows the simpler TCP/IP model (4 layers), the OSI model remains the standard framework for discussing and troubleshooting network issues by layer.

Related Terms

Network Segmentation
The practice of dividing a network into isolated segments to improve security, performance, and management.
TCP/IP
The fundamental communication protocol suite of the internet that defines how data is packaged, addressed, transmitted, and received.
Multicast
A network communication method that sends data to multiple recipients simultaneously without duplicating packets for each recipient.
DNS over HTTPS (DoH)
A protocol that encrypts DNS queries by sending them over HTTPS, preventing eavesdropping and manipulation of DNS traffic.
VPN (Virtual Private Network)
A technology that creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and a remote server, securing internet traffic.
IP Address
A unique numerical label assigned to each device on a computer network for identification and communication.
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