This document provides an overview of the OSI reference model, which is an internationally standardized architecture for how computer networks are structured. It consists of 7 layers, with each layer building on the services of the layer below. The bottom 4 layers relate to communication technologies, while the top 3 layers relate to applications and services for users. Each layer has a specific role, such as the physical layer defining hardware connections, the data link layer packaging bits into frames, and the application layer supporting software applications like file transfers. The model aims to promote interoperability between different computer systems.