Computer Network Hierarchy

TCP/IP
The Defense Advance Research Projects Agency (DARPA) originally developed
Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) to interconnect various
defense department computer networks. The Internet, an international Wide
Area Network, uses TCP/IP to connect government and educational institutions
across the world. TCP/IP is also in widespread use on commercial and private
networks. The TCP/IP suite includes the following protocols.
TCP/IP
Cisco Hierarchical Model
The Core Layer

The core layer is literally the internet backbone. At the top of the hierarchy, the core layer is responsible for
transporting large amounts of traffic both reliably and quickly. The only purpose of the network's core layer
is to switch traffic as fast as possible. The traffic transported across the core is common to a majority of
users. However, remember that user data is processed at the distribution layer, which forwards the
requests to the core if needed.

If there is a failure in the core, every user can be affected. Therefore, fault tolerance at this layer is an
issue. The core is likely to see large volumes of traffic, so speed and latency are driving concerns here.
Given the function of the core, we can now consider some design specifics. Let's start with something we
don't want to do.

The Distribution Layer

The distribution layer is sometimes referred to as the workgroup layer and is the major communication
point between the access layer and the core. The primary function of the distribution layer is to provide
routing, filtering, and WAN access and to determine how packets can access the core, if needed.

The distribution layer must determine the fastest way that network service requests are handled; for
example, how a file request is forwarded to a server. After the distribution layer determines the best path, it
forwards the request to the core layer. The core layer then quickly transports the request to the correct
service.

The Access Layer

The access layer controls user and workgroup access to internetwork resources. The access layer is
sometimes referred to as the desktop layer. The network resources most users need will be available
locally. The distribution layer handles any traffic for remote services.
Protocol Hierarchy in a Network
A hierarchy of protocols is a combination of protocols. Each level of the hierarchy
specifies a different protocol for managing a function or a subsystem of the
communication process. Each level has its own set of rules. The protocols define
the rules for each level in the OSI model:

Application Initiates or accepts a request

Layer
Presentation Add information format, presentation and encryption
Layer to the data packet
Session Layer Add traffic flow information to determine when the
package is sent
Transport Layer Add information for error handling

Network Layer Address information is added to the package and

sequence

Data link layer Add shipping information check the data and
prepares to go to the physical connection
Physical Layer The packet is sent as a sequence of bits
 Protocol Hierarchy in a Network
The lower levels in the OSI model
specifies how manufacturers can
connect their products to the
products of other manufacturers,
for example, using NIC from
various manufacturers on the same
LAN. When using the same
protocols, they can send and
receive data among themselves

The upper levels specify the rules for direct communication sessions (the time in
which two teams maintain a connection) and interpreting applications. As you
increase the level of the hierarchy, increasing the sophistication of the tasks
associated with the protocols.
Protocol Hierarchy in a Network
Standard Hierarchies

The computer industry has designed various types of protocols and protocol standard
models. The hardware and software manufacturers can develop their products to fit
each of the combinations of these protocols. The most important models include:
 
 - The architecture of network systems at IBM (SNA).
 - Digital DECnet.
 - Novell NetWare.
 - Apple's AppleTalk.
 - The Internet protocol suite, TCP / IP.

The protocols exist at each level of these hierarchies, performing the tasks specified by
level. However, communication tasks have to make the networks are grouped into a
protocol type three. Each type is composed of one or more levels of the OSI model.