OSI Model (As It Applies to LANs and the Interrelation Between Layers)

The upper layers of the Open System Interconnection (OSI) model, where user data is found, need the lower layers, like a train needs tracks to get from point A to B. It is these lower layers—physical, data link, and network—that provide the “railroad tracks” for the user data. They allow the data to ride across the network, such as when sending an e-mail or surfing the Internet.

Layer 1—Physical Layer

The physical layer moves the bit stream (signal) from one point to another across a carrier, such as a network cable, originating from the transmitter (device sending the signal) and terminating at the receiver (device receiving the signal). For example, when you have a telephone ...

Get LAN Switching first-step now with the O’Reilly learning platform.

O’Reilly members experience books, live events, courses curated by job role, and more from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers.