653 Layered Models: Review
653.1 Overview
This review consolidates your understanding of network layering models - the foundation for all networking knowledge. The content has been organized into focused chapters for deeper learning.
This review is split into three focused chapters:
- OSI and TCP/IP Comparison - Model fundamentals, key concepts, and chapter summary
- Knowledge Checks - 16 MCQs testing layer mapping, addressing, and troubleshooting
- Resources and Visual Gallery - Videos, tools, and AI-generated diagrams
653.2 Learning Objectives
By the end of this review, you will be able to:
- Compare OSI and TCP/IP: Understand the relationship between theoretical and practical models
- Apply Encapsulation: Trace data flow through network layers with header addition/removal
- Explain Addressing: Distinguish MAC, IP, and port addressing at different layers
- Apply ARP: Understand IP-to-MAC resolution for local network communication
- Evaluate IoT Models: Compare traditional models with IoT-specific reference architectures
- Identify Standards Bodies: Recognize IEEE, IETF, ISO, and their role in IoT protocols
653.3 Prerequisites
Required Chapters:
- Layered Models - Protocol stacks
- Networking Fundamentals - Network basics
- IoT Protocols Overview - Protocol context
Technical Background:
- OSI model layers
- TCP/IP model
- Encapsulation concepts
Estimated Time: 30 minutes (all sections)
653.4 Quick Reference
| Layer | OSI | TCP/IP | IoT |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | Application | Application | MQTT, CoAP |
| 6 | Presentation | - | JSON, CBOR |
| 5 | Session | - | - |
| 4 | Transport | Transport | UDP, TCP |
| 3 | Network | Internet | IPv6, 6LoWPAN |
| 2 | Data Link | Link | 802.15.4, BLE |
| 1 | Physical | Link | Radio |
What is this chapter? This review consolidates your understanding of network layering models - the foundation for all networking knowledge.
When to use this chapter:
- After studying OSI and TCP/IP models
- Before diving into specific protocols (MQTT, CoAP, etc.)
- When you need to understand where protocols fit in the stack
Key Models to Know:
| Model | Layers | Use |
|---|---|---|
| OSI | 7 layers | Reference model for understanding |
| TCP/IP | 4 layers | Practical internet protocol suite |
| IoT Stack | Varies | Application-specific combinations |
Why This Matters for IoT: Understanding layers helps you choose the right protocol for each part of your IoT system - from physical connections to application messaging.
Recommended Path:
- Start with OSI and TCP/IP Comparison
- Test yourself with Knowledge Checks
- Explore Resources and Visual Gallery
Deep Dives:
- Layered Models Fundamentals - OSI and TCP/IP details
- Networking Fundamentals - Network architecture basics
Layer Implementations:
- Routing Protocols - Network layer (Layer 3)
- Transport Protocols - Transport layer (Layer 4)
- Application Protocols - Application layer (Layer 7)
IoT Protocol Mapping:
- MQTT Architecture - MQTT in OSI model
- CoAP Architecture - CoAP layer mapping
- 6LoWPAN Stack - Adaptation layer
Comparisons:
- IoT Protocols Review - Cross-layer protocol analysis
- Protocol Selection - Choosing protocols
Learning:
- Quizzes Hub - Networking model assessments
- Videos Hub - OSI model tutorials
653.5 Chapter Contents
653.5.1 Part 1: OSI and TCP/IP Comparison
Covers:
- Layer functions as questions (WHAT, HOW reliably, WHERE, HOW to transmit)
- Key concepts: encapsulation, decapsulation, addressing
- OSI 7-layer vs TCP/IP 4-layer mapping
- IoT reference models (Cisco 7-level, ITU-T, IEEE 2413)
- Common misconception: “More layers = better security”
653.5.2 Part 2: Knowledge Checks
Covers:
- Understanding checks: IoT sensor data flow, gateway translation, protocol overhead
- 16 multiple choice questions with detailed explanations
- Topics: layer mapping, MAC/IP addressing, ARP, subnet calculations
- Design challenge: Smart building IP addressing scheme
653.5.3 Part 3: Resources and Visual Gallery
Covers:
- Video tutorials on OSI and TCP/IP models
- Interactive tools: subnet calculators, OUI lookups
- AI-generated visual diagrams for different learning styles
- Next steps and advanced topics
653.6 Summary
This review solidified understanding of layered network models and their practical application to IoT systems:
- OSI (7-layer) and TCP/IP (4-layer) models provide theoretical and practical frameworks for organizing network protocols
- Encapsulation proceeds top-down during transmission with each layer adding headers
- MAC vs IP addressing: Layer 2 for local delivery, Layer 3 for global routing
- ARP resolves IP to MAC using broadcast requests and unicast replies
- IoT reference models extend beyond traditional networking with edge computing, analytics, and business layers
653.7 What’s Next
Continue with the detailed chapters:
- OSI and TCP/IP Comparison - Start here for model fundamentals
- Knowledge Checks - Test your understanding
- Resources and Visual Gallery - Videos and visual references
Or proceed to:
- Routing Fundamentals - How Layer 3 routing works
- Transport Protocols - TCP vs UDP at Layer 4