How many layers are there in the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model?

The correct response reflects the standard structure of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model, which consists of seven distinct layers. These layers are designed to help understand and implement network protocols in a systematic way. Each layer serves its own specific function, playing a critical role in the networking process.

The seven layers of the OSI model, from the top down, are as follows:

1. Application Layer: This layer interacts with software applications to facilitate network services directly to the end-user.

2. Presentation Layer: It ensures that data is presented in a readable format for the application layer, handling data translation, encryption, and compression.

3. Session Layer: This layer manages sessions or connections between applications, controlling the dialogues (connections) between the applications at each end.

4. Transport Layer: Responsible for reliable transmission of data segments between points on a network, providing error recovery and flow control.

5. Network Layer: This layer determines the best path for data transfer and handles packet forwarding including routing through different routers.

6. Data Link Layer: It provides node-to-node data transfer and handles error correction from the physical layer.

7. Physical Layer: The lowest layer, which deals