How to Answer: What are the key differences between the OSI and the TCP/IP reference models?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Computer Network Architect job interview.
16. What are the key differences between the OSI and the TCP/IP reference models?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This is another version of questions about the reference models used by Computer Network architects. Interviewers can ask you about specific topics in several different ways. It is up to you to recognize what they are asking about so that your answer addresses their question.
Written by William Swansen on December 14th, 2021
How to Answer
One of the critical practices for any interview is to carefully listen to the interviewer's questions before formulating your answer. This will ensure that you answer their question accurately and provide them with the information they seek. A good technique is to wait at least 2 seconds after the interviewer has stopped speaking before you begin to answer the question. This will help you be an attentive listener and make sure that your answer is appropriate.
Written by William Swansen on December 14th, 2021
Technical Example
"There are several fundamental differences between the OSI and TCP/IP reference models. The first is a seven-layer architecture, while the second only has four layers. OSI is well defined with fixed boundaries between the layers. The TCP/IP model is more flexible, with no strict boundaries between each layer. TCP/IP was developed to create more reliability and improve the low reliability of the OSI model. Finally, the OSI model is a vertical layer approach while the TCP/IP model is horizontal."
Written by William Swansen on December 14th, 2021