The document describes the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model, which defines 7 layers for network communication: Physical, Data Link, Network, Transport, Session, Presentation, and Application. Information passes through each layer as it travels from one application to another across a network. Each layer adds a header and communicates with adjacent layers and its peer layer on other systems. The OSI model provides a standardized framework for network design and debugging multi-layered network applications and services.