Networking Models

Network Protocols
 Protocol
 Formal description of a set of rules and
conventions that govern a particular
aspect of how devices on a network
communicate
 Protocol Suite
 Group of inter-related protocols necessary
to perform a communication function
 Implemented in software and hardware
loaded on each host and network device
 Protocol Stack
 Shows how the individual protocols within
the suite are implemented on the host
Using layers to describe face-to-
face communication
 Physical layer
 Rules layer
 Content layer
 Network protocol suites describe
processes such as:
 Format or structure of message
 Process by which networking devices share
information about pathways with other
networks
 How and when error and system messages
are passed between devices
 Set-up and termination of data transfer
session
 Standard
 Process or protocols endorsed by the
networking industry and ratified by
standards organization
 Organizations that create and
maintain network rules include:
 Institute of Electrical and Electronic
Engineers
 American National Standards Institute
 Telecommunications Industry Association
 Electronic Industries Alliance
 International Telecommunications Union
 Internet Engineering Task Force
Layered model
 Depicts the operation of the protocols
occurring within each layer as well as the
interaction with the layers above and
below it
Benefits of layered model:
 Assists in protocol design
 Fosters competition
 Prevents technology or capability
changes in one layer from affecting
other layers
 Provides a common language to
describe networking functions and
capabilities
Basic types of networking
models:
 Protocol models
 Provides a model that closely matches the
structure of a particular protocol suite

 Reference models
 Provides a common reference for
maintaining consistency within all types of
network protocols and services
Internet Model
 Defines four categories of functions
that must occur for communications to
be successful
Sending Messages:
Sending Messages:
Receiving Messages:
OSI
 Open systems interconnect
 Developed by ISO
 Created as architecture for developers
to follow design protocols for network
communications