The Open Systems Interconnect (OSI) 7 layer model is the foundation stone for data communications. The OSI Reference model defines seven layers that describe how applications running on network-aware devices may communicate with each other. The model is generic and applies to all network types, not just TCP/ IP and Ethernet, and all media types.

It is important to understand the function of each layer. Knowing the order in which each layer appears in the stack is fundamental to understanding its role.

A mnemonic is a memory aid, designed to make it easier to remember lists of data. A typical technique involves taking the first letter of each word in the list, and creating a sentence based on those letters.

This technique is often used to help people remember the order of each layer in the OSI 7 layer model. Sometimes the mnemonic is created from the bottom up, and sometimes from the top down. So the options are:-

The mnemonic traditionally suggested by IT trainers is:

All People Seem To Need Data Processing

Fortunately the IT world is populated by people with a bit more imagination, and consequently there are many mnemonics for the OSI 7 layer model that are much more entertaining. Here is a selection.

• Princess Diana Never Tried Screwing Prince Andrew
  
• Please Do Not Take Sales People's Advice
  
• Philys Did Networking Till She Passed Away
  
• American Presidents Should Try New Dating Practices
  
• All Penguins Stand Too Near Deep Pools
  
• Angus Prefers Sausages To Nibbling Dried Pork
  
• A Pathetic Silly Trick Never Does Please
  
• People Don't Need This Stuff Presented Anyway
  
• Programmers Do Not Throw Sausage Pizza Away
  
• Arse Pounders Seem To Neglect Delicious Pussy
  
• All Parents Should Teach New Dads Parenting
  
• Apply Proper Sense To Network Data Path
  
• People Don't Need To Study Protocol Analysis
  
• Please Do Not Touch Steve's Pet Alligator
  
• Phil Donahue Never Televises Sick People Anymore
  
• Please Dear, Not Tonight, Soft Penis Already
  
• All People Studying This Need Drastic Psychotherapy
  
• People Design Networks To Send Packets Accurately
  
• Australian Post Sucks They Never Deliver Parcels
  
• Philosophers Deign Not To Solipstically Ponder Anachronisms
  
• Please Don't Network These Stupid People Again
  
• Any Person Standing Totally Nude Doesn't Perspire
  
• All Pussy Seems To Need Douching Periodically
  

If you have your own amusing mnemonic for the OSI 7 layer model which you would like to be included here, please email it to contact@ethernettraining.com

For training courses with a sense of humour, try www.HiComCenter.com

Mark Cooksley

Definition: Mnemonic adjective Relating to, assisting, or intended to assist the memory. noun A device, such as a formula or rhyme, used as an aid in remembering. Greek mnemonikos, from mnemon, mindful

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