OSI stands for open systems interconnection, and this is a conceptual model that has been created by the International Organization for Standardization. The purpose is to enable diverse communication systems to communicate via the use of standard protocols. In basic terms? This is what enables one computer to communicate with another.
However, you may be wondering why your tech company should care about the OSI model and what it means for you. Don’t worry, as we are going to reveal everything you need to know below.
Understanding how the OSI model works
Before we can look at when technology companies should use this system, we first need to understand exactly how it works.
Information technology network professionals use this to conceptualize or model the way data is received or sent over a network. The comprehension of this has become a foundational element of most of the IT networking certifications available today, including the CompTIA Network+ certification program and the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) program.
The aim of this model is to break down data transmission standards, protocols, and processes over a series of seven layers. The 7 layers of the OSI model are responsible for performing certain tasks relating to data being sent and received.
The chief concept of the OSI model is that the process of communication between two endpoints within a network can be divided into seven specific layers of related functions. Every communication program or user is on a device that is able to provide those seven layers.
With this architecture, every layer serves the layer that is above it, and at the same time, it is served by the layer that is underneath it. Therefore, in a message between two users, the data is going to flow down through the layers in the source computer, across the network, and then up through the receiving computer’s layers.
Naturally, only the layer at the top of the stack is not going to provide any services to a layer at a higher level.
Understanding the 7 layers of the OSI model
The seven layers of this renowned model are as follows:
Layer 1 - Physical (We need to start at the bottom, with the physical layer, which is a representation of the physical and electrical elements of the system. This can incorporate physical requirements like voltages and the layout of pins, as well as radio frequency link, cable type, and so on. If an issue happens, the majority of networking professionals will go straight to the physical layer to ensure the power plug has not been pulled from the router and the cables are connected properly).
Layer 2 - Data Link (The second layer in the system handles the correction of any mistakes from the physical layer, as well as providing node-to-node data transfer. It is important to note that there are two sublayers here as well; the Logical Link Control (LLC) layer and the Media Access Control (MAC) layer.
Layer 3 - Network (This network layer is where you are going to find the majority of the router functionality that most networking experts care about and love. In the most basic terms, this layer has the responsibility of packet forwarding, which includes routing via different routers.)
Layer 4 - Transport (This layer deals with coordinating the transfer of data between hosts and end systems. This includes how much data is being sent, where it goes, at what rate it is sent, and so on.)
Layer 5 - Session (A session must be created so that two networked devices, such as computers, and speak with each other. That is what this layer is all about. Setup, coordination, and termination between the applications are all involved in this part of the process.)
Layer 6 - Presentation (This layer represents the area that is independent of the representation of data at the application layer. Generally, it represents the application format being translated or prepared into network format. In basic terms, it ensures the data is presented for the network or application).
Layer 7 - Application (This is the layer nearest to the end-user. Information is received directly from the user, and the incoming data is then displayed to the end-user. This layer is all about facilitating communication via the lower lowers so that connections can be established with applications at the other end.)
When was the OSI model introduced?
Now that you know how the OSI model was introduced, let’s take a brief look at the history of it. Back in the 70s, technology researchers started examining how computer systems would be able to most effectively communicate with one another.
Over the following years, a number of competing models were generated, and they were sent to the community. Nevertheless, it was not until 1984 that the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) proposed the OSI by taking the best elements of these competing network reference models.
When should tech companies use the OSI model?
Ultimately, the OSI model is used to make sure that different technological products interact with one and other effectively. This could be different devices in your business network or it could be integrating various software platforms so that they operate in harmony with one and other.
The aim of the OSI reference model is basically to guide technology developers and vendors so that the software programs and communications products they create can interoperate. It also ensures there is a clear framework, which describes the functions of the telecommunications or networking system that is in place.
A lot of the vendors that are involved in telecommunications attempt to describe their services or products in relation to this model. It aids them in differentiating from the different transport protocols, addressing communications and schemes packaging methods.
Furthermore, despite the fact that it is helpful in guiding evaluation and discussion, the OSI model is theoretical in nature, and so your business should only use it as a general guide.
The reason for this is that only a few network products or standard tools will keep related functions together in layers that have been well-defined, as is the case with the OSI model.
The most popular network protocol used at the moment is the TCP/IP, i.e. the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol. While it offers a number of benefits, it does not map cleanly in comparison to the OSI model.
What are the benefits of the OSI model?
You may be wondering whether or not you should use the OSI model. What advantages can it bring your technology business over the other protocols being used today?
Layer changes do not impact other layers - One of the main reasons why the OSI model is highly championed is that changes can be made to one layer without impacting any of the other layers. This makes this approach a lot easier to implement and manage. However, we must point out that this cannot be guaranteed when making amendments to the layer interface.
Network support - On default, the OSI model is generic. Why is this a benefit? Well, it means that a wide range of device manufacturers support the OSI model. In fact, the majority of computers utilize it as their standard model.
It is easier to troubleshoot - Because every layer of the OSI model has been separated from the rest, it makes it a lot easier to troubleshoot potential issues. If there is any sort of failure, the network administrator should be able to determine the problem with greater ease and efficiency by simply looking at each layer. You do not need to waste any time assessing the entire network.
The OSI model is highly flexible - Another benefit is that the OSI model is incredibly flexible in nature because it is able to work with services that are connectionless and connection-based. If there is a scenario whereby you need to maintain reliability, then you can go for connection-oriented services. On the flip side, using connectionless services is a great choice if you are concerned about the speed of data transmission.
Clearly distinguish tasks in every layer - A final benefit to consider with the OSI model is that you will be able to distinguish the task in every layer clearly. This is because even though every layer in the model is assigned with the task of interfaces, protocols, and services, there is a clear distinction between each one. This is why every device that works with the OSI model is able to support each other effectively.
Final words on the OSI model
So there you have it: everything you need to know about the OSI model and when it is appropriate to use it. We hope that the information we have provided you with has given you a better understanding of what the OSI model is, when you should use it, and the benefits it could bring.