Open Systems Interconnection
(OSI) Reference Model
Open Systems Interconnection
(OSI) Reference Model
The Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) Reference Model, developed by the International Standards Organization (ISO), provides a framework for organizing the various data communications functions occurring between disparate devices that work together. This model is used as a guideline for developing standards that can allow the interoperation of equipment produced by various manufacturers. Systems that conform to these standards and interoperability as a goal are referred to as open systems. They are open to interoperate with many other systems.
The OSI Reference Model defines seven layers of functionality in data communications. To find out more about each individual layer, click on each layer. Start with the first layer which is the Physical Layer.
