Difference Between TCP/IP and OSI Model

The difference between TCP/IP and OSI Model seems to be minor but by composition, features, functions and purpose, the two are extremely different. The difference between the two terms is also important from the IAS Exam perspective. 

The TCP/IP or the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol is a communication protocol suite using which network devices can be connected to the Internet. On the other hand, the Open Systems Interconnection or OSI Model is a conceptual framework, using which the functioning of a network can be described. 

In this article, we bring to you a tabulated difference between the TCP/IP model and the OSI model. This will help candidates prepare themselves and upgrade their Computer Knowledge for the upcoming competitive exams. 

Aspirants can check their preparation by attempting the UPSC Previous Years Question Papers now!!

To complement your preparation for the upcoming exam, check the following links:

Difference Between TCP/IP and OSI Model PDF:-Download PDF Here

Candidates can also visit the links given below and learn more about the other important computer-related terms and applications for the UPSC exam:

Fundamentals of Computer Computer Abbreviations
Input and Output Devices Microsoft Windows
Types of Computer Computer Networks

The image below sums up the difference between OSI and TCP/IP model.

Difference Between TCP/IP and OSI Model

TCP/IP vs OSI Model – Comparative Analysis

Given below is a tabulated comparison between the two models of networking, the TCP/IP and OSI model. Candidates must carefully go through the following key points of difference between the two. 

Difference  between TCP/IP and OSI Model
TCP/IP OSI Model
The full form of TCP/IP is Transmission Control Protocol/ Internet Protocol. The full form of OSI is Open Systems Interconnection.
It is a communication protocol that is based on standard protocols and allows the connection of hosts over a network. It is a structured model which deals which the functioning of a network.
In 1982, the TCP/IP model became the standard language of ARPANET. In 1984, the OSI model was introduced by the International Organisation of Standardization (ISO).
It comprises of four layers:

  • Network Interface
  • Internet 
  • Transport 
  • Application
It comprises seven layers:

  • Physical
  • Data Link
  • Network
  • Transport
  • Session
  • Presentation
  • Application
It follows a horizontal approach. It follows a vertical approach.
The TCP/IP is the implementation of the OSI Model. An OSI Model is a reference model, based on which a network is created.
It is protocol-dependent. It is protocol-independent.

The above points of comparison display the difference between the TCP/IP and OSI models efficiently.

However, there are a few similarities between the two which are as mentioned below –

Similarities between the TCP/IP and OSI models

  • Both models are based on layered structuring.
  • In both models, data are mainly used to convert raw data into packets and help them reach their destination node. 
  • In both models, protocols are defined in a layer-wise manner.
  • The layers in the models are compared with each other. The physical layer and the data link layer of the OSI model correspond to the link layer of the TCP/IP model.
  • The session layer, the presentation layer and the application layer of the OSI model together form the application layer of the TCP/IP model.
  • The network layers and the transport layers are the same in both models.

It must also be known that the computer-based questions are asked in the Science and Technology part of the IAS syllabus. So, aspirants can also solve some sample Science and Technology MCQ for UPSC in the linked article.

Apart from the difference between TCP/IP and the OSI model, there are various other difference between articles which will enhance the Computer Awareness of the candidates. Below are links to a few such articles:

To learn more and to get 100+ difference between articles from various subjects and fields included in the UPSC syllabus, candidates can visit the linked article.

Difference Between OSI and TCP/IP Model PDF:-Download PDF Here

Furthermore, to get the latest exam updates, the best study material and a suitable preparation strategy, candidates can visit BYJU’S.

Frequently Asked Questions on TCP/IP vs OSI Model

Q1

1. What is the main difference between TCP/IP and OSI Models?

TCP/IP Model is a communication protocols suite using which network devices can be connected to the Internet. On the other hand, the OSI Model is a conceptual framework using which the functioning of a network can be described.
Q2

2. TCP/IP vs OSI: What are the different layers?

The TCP/IP Model comprises four layers: Network Interface, Internet, Transport and Application. The OSI Model comprises seven layers: Physical, Data Link, Network, Transport, Session, Presentation and Application.
Q3

3. Is TCP/IP a part of the OSI Model?

There is a separate layer for Data Link and Physical in the OSI Model, whereas the TCP/IP has a single Network Interface layer for the same. Similarly, there are Application, Presentation and Session layers in OSI, which are combined into one layer (Application) for TCP/IP.
Q4

5. TCP/IP vs OSI: Which came first?

Among TCP/IP and OSI, the Open Systems Interconnection model was introduced by the International Organisation of Standardization in 1984, and the TCP/IP model was introduced about 10 years before that.
Related Links
Important Computer-related Terms Science and Technology Notes for UPSC
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