Introduction to the TCP/IP Model

The TCP/IP model is a part of the Internet Protocol Suite. This model acts as a communication protocol for computer networks and connects hosts on the Internet. It is a concise version of the OSI Model and comprises four layers in its structure.

This concept of TCP/IP is not just important for people in the computer or IT fields but also is an essential part of the Computer Knowledge syllabus, included in major competitive exams.

Before, diving deep into the different aspects of the structure, refer to the table below and know about some basic and introductory features of the model:

Basics of TCP/IP Model
Full-Form Transmission Control Protocol/ Internet Protocol
Developed By Department of Defence (DoD), United States
Developed in During the 1970s
Year for acknowledgement as a standard protocol by ARPANET 1983
Function of TCP Collecting and Reassembling Data Packets
Function of IP Sending the Data Packets to the correct destination
Number of Layers in TCP/IP Model 4 layers

In this article, we shall discuss in detail the different layers of the TCP/IP model along with their functions. Also, a few sample questions based on this topic have been given further below for the reference of Government exam aspirants.

To study in detail about what is a Computer Network and its different types, candidates can visit the linked article.

Strengthen your Computer Awareness with the help of links given below:

History and Development of TCP/IP Model

This protocol is a result of the research and development by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) during the 1960s. Given below are a few points which had played an important role in the advancement of the TCP/IP model:

Gradually, this Internet protocol suite or the TCP/IP model was accepted across the globe as a comprehensive framework for computer networking and Internet communication.

The TCP/IP model is considered to be similar to the Open Systems Interconnection Model. However, the framework and the structuring of the two was completely different and Transmission Control Protocol/ Internet Protocol was released prior to the OSI Model. For a detailed difference between the two, candidates can visit the Difference Between TCP/IP and OSI Model page.

Links to a few other fundamental topics and concepts have been given below for people to learn and understand one of the most complex, yet essential devices, which is the Computer:

Layers of the TCP/IP Model

Unlike the OSI model which comprises seven layers, the TCP/IP model is structured with four different layers. These four layers are:

  1. Network Access Layer
  2. Internet Layer
  3. Host to Host Layer
  4. Application Layer

Now, let us discuss each of these four layers in detail along with their functions as a part of the protocol architecture.

1. Network Access Layer
2. Internet Layer