The Seven Layer Network Model

Dr. Marcovitz

Layer 1: Physical

Bits

Get bits from one place to another

Layer 2: Data Link

Data Frames

Organize bits into frames and provide error correction so entire frames (with none missing and none duplicated) are received

Layer 3: Network

Packets

Routes packets of data making sure each packet of data gets to the right place

Layer 4: Transport

Hardware Interface

Takes information from higher layers and puts it in the form the hardware can accept.

Layer 5: Session

Session

Establishes a virtual connection between two machines.

Layer 6: Presentation

Optimize

Perform common functions (such as encryption, compression, and conversion) that the user doesn't need to worry about.

Layer 7: Application

Human to Human

Applications, such as email programs and web browsers exchange informatioin.

Reference:

Tanenbaum, Andrew. (1981). Computer networks. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall, Inc.

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This page was prepared by: David M. Marcovitz, Ph.D.

Last updated: November 16, 2001

[Loyola College | Education Department]

Layer 1: Physical	Bits	Get bits from one place to another
Layer 2: Data Link	Data Frames	Organize bits into frames and provide error correction so entire frames (with none missing and none duplicated) are received
Layer 3: Network	Packets	Routes packets of data making sure each packet of data gets to the right place
Layer 4: Transport	Hardware Interface	Takes information from higher layers and puts it in the form the hardware can accept.
Layer 5: Session	Session	Establishes a virtual connection between two machines.
Layer 6: Presentation	Optimize	Perform common functions (such as encryption, compression, and conversion) that the user doesn't need to worry about.
Layer 7: Application	Human to Human	Applications, such as email programs and web browsers exchange informatioin.