OSI Implementations refers to network protocols, technologies, and products that are designed and developed based on the concepts put forth by the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model.
- The OSI model describes networking in terms of 7 layered abstract levels like Physical, Data Link, Network, Transport etc.
- Technologies are designed to work within one or more OSI layers, while interacting with adjacent layers for modular networking.
- For example, Ethernet, WiFi networks operate at Layer 1 and Layer 2.
- IP works at Layer 3, TCP and UDP at Layer 4, and protocols like HTTP at higher layers.
- Products like switches, routers and network interface cards enable the modularity via implementing support for OSI layer functionality.
- This abstract layered approach allows interoperability between vendors and technologies.
In summary, OSI Implementations refers to the various hardware and protocol specifications that enable interoperable multi-vendor computer networking through standardization around OSI model abstractions.
SONET/SDH - Point-to-point synchronous networks that use TDM multiplexing across a ring or mesh physical topology
SLIP - Serial Line IP - Modem protocol
PPP - Point-to-Point Protocol - PPP Built into NEC's new V850 NetChip modules, enabling easy Internet connection solution
IEEE 802 - Basic concepts, terminology and key specifications
FDDI - Fiber Distributed Data Interface - X3T9.5 - Open source access for Linux to provide clustered computing users access to high-speed driver technology
Frame Relay - Fast packet-switching in new transatlantic frame relay services
Networking
OSI : A Model for Computer Communications Standards by Uyless D. Black - Global networking standards are the link between computers and users when communicating across geographical and system hardware boundaries. This volume details the OSI standards, the data networks they serve, and the modelling and mathematical issues affecting them. Designed as both a reference and tutorial, complete with extensive graphics, this book examines the International Standards Organization and CCITT OSI protocol and reflects the latest changes to the network model's upper layers.
Handbook of Computer Communications Standards : The Open Systems Interconnection (OSI Model and OSI-Related Standards) by William Stallings - an excellent textbook as well as reference on OSI Reference Model and related standards. The OSI Model is presented in detail. Various protocols for wide area networking, like HDLC and X.25, are explained in depth with clear illustrations. This book provides in depth analysis of computer communication technologies.
OSI implementations are still widely used in modern computer networks even though the OSI model itself is largely conceptual and abstract in nature. Some key points on continued relevance of OSI implementations:
- The OSI model provides a framework to standardize network components around layers of abstraction to enable interoperability.
- Major networking technologies like Ethernet, WiFi, TCP/IP closely align to OSI layers in their design even though not completely compliant.
- Equipment like switches, routers, network cards etc. work on the principles of modularity and abstraction driven by OSI model.
- Newer technologies also follow layered architectures loosely based on OSI. For example, TCP/IP model layers map closely to that of OSI.
- IETF and IEEE standards frequently reference or align to aspects of OSI model in areas like management, security controls etc.
While OSI itself has limited real-world implementations, variants of layered architectures it exemplified underpin modern network tech around abstraction and interoperability. Its concepts indirectly influence many networking standards and products even today.