The OSI model, developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), provides a conceptual framework for understanding how data is transmitted across a network. It is divided into seven layers, each with specific functions:
1. Physical Layer: Deals with the transmission and reception of raw bit streams over a physical medium.
2. Data Link Layer: Ensures reliable transmission of data frames between two nodes connected by a physical layer.
3. Network Layer: Manages the routing of data packets across multiple nodes to reach the destination.
4. Transport Layer: Provides end-to-end communication services for applications, ensuring data integrity and flow control.
6. Presentation Layer: Translates data between the application layer and the network format, handling data encryption, compression, and translation.
7. Application Layer: Provides network services directly to end-user applications, such as email, file transfer, and web browsing.
The TCP/IP model, on the other hand, is more practical and is the foundation of the Internet. It consists of four layers:
1. Network Access Layer: Corresponds to the Physical and Data Link layers of the OSI model, handling the transmission of data over a physical medium.
2. Internet Layer: Equivalent to the OSI Network layer, responsible for routing packets across the network.
3. Transport Layer: Similar to the OSI Transport layer, it ensures reliable data transfer between end systems.