How many layers are in the TCP/IP model?

The TCP/IP model consists of four layers, which are designed to facilitate communication in network protocols. These layers are:

1. Application Layer: This top layer is responsible for network services and application-level functions. It includes protocols like HTTP, FTP, and SMTP, which allow applications to communicate over the network.

2. Transport Layer: This layer manages end-to-end communication and ensures data is transferred reliably. Key protocols within this layer include TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) and UDP (User Datagram Protocol), which handle error correction and data integrity.

3. Internet Layer: This layer is responsible for addressing and routing packets of data across networks. It utilizes the Internet Protocol (IP) to assign unique addresses and direct packets to their destinations.

4. Link Layer: Also known as the network interface layer, this layer involves physical hardware and data link protocols to facilitate communication over the physical network medium, such as Ethernet.

The four-layer structure of the TCP/IP model is simpler than other network models, such as the OSI model, which contains seven layers. This simplicity aligns with the practical implementation of protocols and the real-time performance needs of the internet.

Understanding these four layers and their functions is crucial for grasping how data is