TCP/IP Layers

Physical layer

Network access layer

Internet layer

Host-to-host, or transport layer

Application layer

TCP/IP Physical Layer

Covers the physical interface between a data transmission device and a transmission medium or network

Physical layer specifies:

Characteristics of the transmission medium

The nature of the signals

The data rate

Other related matters


TCP/IP Network Access Layer

Concerned with the exchange of data between an end system and the network to which it's attached

Software used depends on type of network

Circuit switching

Packet switching (e.g., X.25)

LANs (e.g., Ethernet)

Others


TCP/IP Internet Layer

Uses internet protocol (IP)

Provides routing functions to allow data to traverse multiple interconnected networks

Implemented in end systems and routers


Transport Layer

Commonly uses transmission control protocol (tcp)

Provides reliability during data exchange

Completeness

Order


TCP/IP Application Layer

Logic supports user applications

Uses separate modules that are peculiar to each different type of application