Trick to remember OSI Model 7 Layers unforgettable shortcut name
The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) Model is a
foundational concept in networking that defines how data moves through a
network in seven distinct layers. While understanding the functionality of each
layer is crucial, remembering the correct order—from Layer 1 (Physical) to
Layer 7 (Application)—can be challenging for beginners and even
professionals.
This article provides easy and unforgettable mnemonics
to remember the OSI model layers in both top-down and bottom-up
directions. Perfect for students, IT professionals, and job seekers preparing
for certifications like CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, or CEH.
All = Application Layer
People= Presentation Layer
Seem = Session Layer
To = Transport Layer
Need = Network Layer
Data = Data Link Layer
Processing = Physical Layer
Application Layer (DATA)
Application Layer provides Interface between users and machines.
Protocols of this layer are: HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, TFTP, Telnet, SNMP, DNS, Rlogin, SMTP, POP3, IMAP, and LDAP.
Presentation Layer (DATA)
This layer facilitates the presentation of Data to the upper layer. Mainly, Provide Encoding Scheme & Encryption formation.
Protocols of this layer: JPEG, BMP, GIF, TIF, PNG, MP3, MIDI, ASCII & ANSI etc.
This layer provides virtual agreement between two end communication devices.
Functions of this layer: Establishment, Management & Termination
The best example to explain this layer is telephone call in which first you established the connection, then exchange a message and finally terminate the session.
Protocols of this layer: SIP, NFS, SQL, ASP, RDBMS
The above three layers are known as the software layer.
Transport Layer (SEGMENT)
This layer is responsible for Control of Data flow and, if an error occurs, reconnect the data and re-transmit.
Functions of this layer: Handshaking, Acknowledgement and Sequencing
Protocols of this layer: TCP, UDP, SPX
Network Layer (Packet)
This layer is used for communication to remote networks.
Functions of this layer: Sorting, Filtering and Distribution
Protocols of this layer: Routed Protocol: IP/IPX/Apple talk
Routing Protocol: IGP, EGP, BGP, EBGP, IBGP, RIP, IGRP, RIP, OPSF, IS-IS
Data Link Layer (Frame)
Function of this layers: Error Detection and Control of Data
Uniqueness of this layer: MAC address
Protocols of this layer: PPP, HDLC, ATM, Frame Relay, SLIP, Ethernet
Physical Layer (Binary)
This involves media, move bits between devices
MAC Address: Information Delivered
IP Address: Carrier of Information
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Why Is It Important to Remember the OSI Model?
- Helps
in troubleshooting network issues efficiently
- Essential
knowledge for networking interviews and IT exams
- Useful
in understanding how protocols and devices interact
- Required
for certifications and hands-on network configurations
The 7 Layers of the OSI Model (Top to Bottom)
- Application
- Presentation
- Session
- Transport
- Network
- Data
Link
- Physical
Shortcut Mnemonics to Remember OSI Layers
From Layer 7 to Layer 1 (Top to Bottom)
Mnemonic:
"All People Seem To Need Data Processing"
- A
– Application
- P
– Presentation
- S
– Session
- T
– Transport
- N
– Network
- D
– Data Link
- P
– Physical
From Layer 1 to Layer 7 (Bottom to Top)
Mnemonic:
"Please Do Not Throw Sausage Pizza Away"
- P
– Physical
- D
– Data Link
- N
– Network
- T
– Transport
- S
– Session
- P
– Presentation
- A
– Application
These mnemonics are easy to memorize and widely used
in classrooms, corporate training, and tech communities.
Layer Summary Table
|
OSI Layer |
Layer Number |
Mnemonic Initial |
Description |
|
Application |
7 |
A |
User interface and services |
|
Presentation |
6 |
P |
Data formatting, encryption, compression |
|
Session |
5 |
S |
Session control and management |
|
Transport |
4 |
T |
End-to-end communication, reliability |
|
Network |
3 |
N |
Routing and logical addressing |
|
Data Link |
2 |
D |
MAC addressing, framing, error detection |
|
Physical |
1 |
P |
Physical media and binary data transfer |
Who Should Learn These OSI Mnemonics?
- Students
studying networking and computer science
- Job
seekers preparing for technical interviews
- Professionals
working in tech support, system administration, or cybersecurity
- Educators
teaching network fundamentals and certifications
Benefits of OSI Mnemonics
|
Benefit |
Description |
|
Easy to Memorize |
Mnemonics are short, catchy, and intuitive |
|
Exam-Ready Knowledge |
Useful for passing networking certification exams |
|
Enhances Understanding |
Reinforces the layer-by-layer architecture of data
communication |
|
Boosts Troubleshooting Speed |
Quickly identify layer-specific network issues |
|
Ideal for Beginners and Experts |
A consistent memory tool for all skill levels |
Top 5 FAQs About Remembering OSI Model Layers
|
Question |
Answer |
|
What is the best way to remember the OSI model? |
Use mnemonics like "All People Seem To Need Data
Processing". |
|
Do I need to know the OSI model for IT certifications? |
Yes, it's a key topic in exams like CompTIA Network+ and
CCNA. |
|
Are there other mnemonics for OSI model? |
Yes, many exist. Choose one that's easy for you to recall. |
|
Is the OSI model used in real-world networks? |
Yes, it's a theoretical model, but helps in design and
troubleshooting. |
|
What layer does IP operate at in OSI? |
IP operates at Layer 3 – the Network Layer. |
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