OSI Model Mind Map of the Seven Network Layers
See how the seven OSI layers stack, what each one does and which protocols sit at each level. Turn your own networking notes into a map the same way.
No credit card required
AI Generated Preview
Trusted by learners from top universities
CogniGuide at a glance
- What you get
- Interactive mind maps of the main ideas and how they connect. Free: overview maps (detailed maps on your first 3 creations). Plus: detailed maps with supporting concepts.
- Exports
- Your first PDF or PNG export is free; Plus exports anytime.
- Price
- Free plan: 5 creations a week, up to 3 a day. Plus: $9.99/month or $99.90/year (USD; local prices at checkout).
- Sign-up
- A free account is required before you create anything (Google or email). No credit card.
- What you can upload
- PDF, Word (.docx), PowerPoint (.pptx), plain text or Markdown, and images (PNG, JPG, WebP, GIF), or type a topic. One file per creation on the free plan; several at once on Plus.
How it compares: vs Knowt · vs Quizlet · vs NotebookLM · vs Mapify
Build Your Own OSI Model Map
Start from your networking course material or type the topic, and get an editable map of the layers.
Map from your own notes
Upload a PDF, slides or text from your networking course and the AI extracts the layers and their details.
Layers grouped by function
Branches separate the physical, data link and network layers from the transport, session, presentation and application layers.
Quiz yourself on the layers
Turn the finished map into a quiz to test whether you can recall each layer and its protocols.
How to Make an OSI Model Mind Map
Three steps from your networking material to a study-ready map of the seven layers.
- 1
Add your material
Upload lecture slides, a PDF chapter or notes on the OSI model, or simply type OSI model.
- 2
AI builds the map
The AI organizes the seven layers into branches with their functions and example protocols.
- 3
Study, expand and quiz
Expand any layer with more detail, edit the text, then export as PNG or PDF or turn it into a quiz.
OSI Model Mind Map: Structure and Layers
The OSI model is a seven-layer reference framework that describes how data moves across a network. A mind map of the OSI model places the physical layer at the base and the application layer at the top, with each layer branching into its main job and typical protocols. Seeing the layers as a connected structure helps you remember their order and roles.
- Physical and data link: bits, frames, cabling, MAC addresses and switches
- Network: logical addressing, routing and IP packets
- Transport: segmentation, reliability with TCP and UDP
- Session and presentation: connections, encryption and data formatting
- Application: user-facing protocols such as HTTP, DNS and SMTP
Use the map to quiz yourself on layer order, the data unit at each level and the protocols that belong there. To build a version from your own networking notes, create a personalized map with CogniGuide.
OSI Model Mind Map Questions
Answers about the OSI layers and how to build your own map.
What are the seven layers of the OSI model?
From bottom to top they are physical, data link, network, transport, session, presentation and application. Each layer provides services to the layer above and relies on the one below.
What is the difference between TCP and UDP in the OSI model?
Both operate at the transport layer. TCP is connection-oriented and guarantees ordered, reliable delivery, while UDP is connectionless and faster but does not guarantee delivery.
Which file types can I use to make my own OSI map?
You can upload PDF, Word, PowerPoint, text or Markdown files, or an image of your notes. You can also type the topic directly.
Is it free to create an OSI model mind map?
Yes. The free plan allows 5 creations a week with no payment needed, and you can turn the map into a quiz from there.