12 Advantages and Disadvantages of OSI model Layered Architecture

OSI is a reference model for network communication across all types of computer systems. It follows seven layered architecture that defines different functionalities at each layer. You can read 7 Layers of OSI Model in Networking Explained with Layered Architecture.

In this post, I will describe you advantages and disadvantages of OSI model Layered Architecture.

Every model has its pro and cons. Same way, OSI model also has some advantages and disadvantages.

Let’s begin with…

Advantages of OSI model Layered Architecture:

OSI model has various advantages:

1. It is a truly generic model. And it is considered as a standard model in computer networking.
2. Layers in OSI model architectures are distinguished according to the services, interfaces, and protocols.
3. Since the protocols are hidden, any protocols can be implemented in this model. So I call it as a generic model. It has all flexibility to adapt to many protocols.
4. It supports connection-oriented as well as connectionless services. So we can use the connection-oriented model when we need reliability and connection-less services when we need a faster data transmission over the internet.
   Read difference between Connection-Oriented and Connectionless Services Protocol for more detail.
5. It follows the divide and conquers technique. All the services are distinguished in various layers. So administration and maintenance for these OSI model architecture are straightforward and easy.
6. This layered architecture follows abstraction principle. Change in one layer does not impact much on other layers.
7. It is more secure and adaptable than having all services bundled in a single layer.

These are all advantages of OSI model layered architecture. However, there are some disadvantages of this Layered Architecture as well.

Disadvantages of OSI Model Layered Architecture:

8. It doesn’t define any particular protocol.
9. It may find sometimes difficult to fit a new protocol in this model. This is because this model was created before the invention of any of these protocols.
10. The session layer is used for session management. Presentation layer deals with user interaction. Though they are useful, not as much as other layers in the OSI model.
11. There is some duplication of services at various layers. Such as, both transport and data link layer have error control mechanisms.
12. There is also interdependence among the layers. These layers cannot work in parallel. They have to be in wait to receive data from its predecessor.

I have explained every point in an elegant way. Then again, computer networking is an endless topic. There are still some points we can discuss in detail. So feel to write in the comment section below. I will reply right away to clarify your doubts.