TCP IP Model Lecture Activity - M199205zn/Datacomm-CS3 GitHub Wiki

Lecture Activity: Understanding the TCP/IP Model

Objective: To understand the structure, functions, and significance of the TCP/IP Model in computer networks.

Introduction (for class delivery or reading): The TCP/IP Model (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) is a conceptual framework used to understand and design the functions of a networking system. It consists of four layers:

  1. Application Layer – provides network services to end-user applications.
  2. Transport Layer – ensures reliable data transmission (e.g., TCP and UDP).
  3. Internet Layer – handles logical addressing and routing (e.g., IP).
  4. Network Access Layer – manages physical addressing and access to transmission media.

The TCP/IP model is the foundation of the Internet and differs slightly from the OSI model, which has seven layers.

Activity Questions:

  1. Compare and contrast the TCP/IP model with the OSI model. Why is TCP/IP preferred in practical implementations?

  2. What is the primary role of the Transport Layer in the TCP/IP model, and how do TCP and UDP differ in functionality?

  3. Explain how the Internet Layer contributes to packet delivery across networks. Which protocols operate at this layer?

  4. In which layer of the TCP/IP model do protocols like HTTP, FTP, and DNS operate, and why are they placed there?

  5. If data is not reaching the correct destination, which layer(s) of the TCP/IP model would you investigate first, and why?