Networking Models

TCP/IP Model Explained

Understanding how TCP/IP layers simplify complex network communication and enable internet functionality.

4-Layer Architecture

TCP/IP's four-layer model (Application, Transport, Internet, Network Access) simplifies the OSI's seven layers by grouping related functions for practical internet communication.

Application Transport Internet Network Access
HTTP/HTTPS
TCP/UDP
IP
Ethernet

Layer Breakdown

Application Layer
  • Handles end-user communication (HTTP, FTP, SMTP)
  • Provides application data interfaces
  • Manages data formatting

Example:

curl https://api.hackclub.com/data
Transport Layer
  • Establishes end-to-end connections (TCP/UDP)
  • Handles data segmentation and reassembly
  • Ensures reliable delivery (TCP)

Example:

nc -z -v example.com 80
Internet Layer
  • Handles IP addressing (IPv4/IPv6)
  • Routing packets between networks
  • ICMP for error reporting

Example:

traceroute hackclub.com
Network Access Layer
  • Physical and data link communication
  • ARP for MAC address resolution
  • Supports different network media (Ethernet, Wi-Fi)

Example:

arp -a

Interactive Layer Explorer

Select a Layer

Explore how TCP/IP layers work together

Choose a layer to see data flow animations