A Comparative Evaluation of OSI and TCP/IP Models

Networking can be done in a layered manner. To reduce design complexities, network designers organize protocols. Every layer follows a protocol to communicate with the client and the server end systems. There is a piece of layer n in each of the network entities. These pieces communicate with each other by exchanging messages. These messages are called as layer-n protocol data units [n-PDU]. All the processes required for effective communication are addressed and are divided into logical groups called layers. When a communication system is designed in this manner, it is known as layered architecture. The OSI model is a set of guidelines that network designers used to create and implement application that run on a network. It also provides a framework for creating and implementing networking standards, devices, and internetworking schemes. This paper explains the differences between the TCP/IP Model and OSI Reference Model, which comprises of seven layers and five different layers respectively. Each layer has its own responsibilities. The TCP/IP reference model is a solid foundation for all of the communication tasks on the Internet.