Bev Facey Community High

NET2050: Open System Interconnection

Students develop knowledge of the Open System Interconnection (OSI) reference model and its use as a conceptual framework for analyzing network communication tasks. They examine the OSI reference model characteristics, the functions of each of its seven layers and how data moves between layers of the reference model when computers establish a network connection.

Start with this lesson on the OSI model.

  1. describe the general purpose and structure of the OSI reference model as a conceptual framework for network communication
    1. explain the purpose of the OSI reference model as a blueprint for designing, implementing and operating network hardware and software
    2. identify the functions of each of the seven layers of the OSI reference model
    3. explain and diagram data transfer between layers of the OSI reference model
    4. explain processes of data encapsulation and de-encapsulation in the OSI reference model
    5. describe the process of data packet delivery and the function of a data frame
    6. match network components and connectivity devices to the layers of the OSI reference model at which they operate
    7. analyze networking tasks with respect to the OSI reference model
  2. explain and illustrate how hardware components, network protocols and encapsulation defined in lower layers of the OSI reference model move data across the network; i.e., physical layer data link layer, network layer, transport layer
    1. identify physical layer components and their function including:
      1. cabling
      2. connectors
      3. network interface cards
      4. repeaters
      5. hubs
    2. describe data signalling at the physical layer
    3. identify Ethernet standards for media type and maximum segment length
    4. demonstrate ability to:
      1. select appropriate cables and connectors
      2. select, install and configure a network adapter
      3. terminate an Ethernet network
      4. test for connectivity
    5. given specific user requirements, do the following:
      1. design physical layer topology and components for a small Ethernet network
      2. create a plan for cabling based on Ethernet standards
    6. identify data link layer devices and their function; e.g., bridges, switches
    7. explain the effects of segmentation in switched networks
    8. identify data link sublayers and their function including:
      1. Logical Link Control (LLC) sublayer
      2. Media Access Control (MAC) sublayer
    9. outline Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) standards for the data link layer
    10. describe connectionless and connection-oriented services associated with the LLC sublayer
    11. explain the nature and limitations of physical addressing associated with the MAC sublayer
    12. explain applications of framing in the transport of data packets
    13. describe and illustrate the structure of a data frame
    14. explain the function of frame addressing and frame relay in the transport of data packets
    15. identify network layer devices and their function including a:
      1. router
      2. brouter
    16. explain the process of routing and the function of:
      1. routing metrics
      2. routing tables
    17. distinguish between:
      1. static and dynamic routing
      2. routable and nonroutable protocols
    18. identify common routing protocols and their function including:
      1. Open Shortest Path First (OSPF)
      2. Routing Information Protocol (RIP)
      3. Novell Netware Link Services Protocol (NLSP)
    19. compare physical addressing associated with the data link layer and logical addressing associated with the network layer
    20. identify logical addressing protocols and their functions including:
      1. Internet Protocol (IP)
      2. Internetwork Packet Exchange (IPX)
      3. new protocols for the Internet and other devices
    21. identify and explain types of error checking performed at the transport layer including:
      1. cyclic redundancy checks
      2. parity bits
      3. checksum calculations
    22. provide a rationale for flow control, and identify hardware and software solutions implemented at the transport layer
    23. explain name resolution functions performed at the transport layer
    24. identify common transport layer protocols and their function including:
      1. Transmission Control Protocol (TCP)
      2. User Datagram Protocol (UDP)
      3. Sequenced Packet Exchange (SPX)
      4. Apple Talk Transaction Protocol/Name Binding Protocol (ATP/NBP)
      5. Network Basic Input/Output System/NetBIOS enhanced user interface (NetBIOS/NetBEUI)
      6. new technologies and their associated protocols
  3. explain the function of upper layers of the OSI reference model in providing client support; i.e., session layer, presentation layer, application layer
    1. identify modes of communication associated with the session layer including:
      1. simplex
      2. half-duplex
      3. full-duplex
    2. describe data compression and encryption processes associated with the presentation layer
    3. identify file formats that serve as standards for the presentation layer
    4. describe network services provided by the application layer including:
      1. message handling
      2. file transfer
      3. database queries
    5. identify upper layer application protocols and their function including:
      1. Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP)
      2. File Transfer Protocol (FTP)
      3. Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)

Throughout the course you will also be evaluated on your basic competencies such as your ability to:

This site is open source. Improve this page.