It is rather stunning how little people know about networks, given how much we all depend on them. For starters, mention of the OSI model is often met by the same apoplexy people get when they can’t access the network. Here is the OSI Model –

What is important for the future of networks is the notion of a reference model. At the risk of being slightly didactic, it is critical to know the properties of a reference model. It's needed to comprehend the OSI Model and the network singularity.

ReferenceModel Properties

Abstract: a reference model is abstract. The things described by a reference model are not actual things, but an abstract representation of things.  

Entities and Relationships: A reference model contains both entities (things that exist) and relationships(how they interact with one another).  

Within an Environment: A reference model does not attempt to describe "all things." A reference model is used to clarify "things within an environment" or a problem space.  

Technology Agnostic: A reference model is not useful if it makes assumptions about the technology or platforms in place in a particular computing environment.

The OSI Model is a reference model. It is the Open System Interconnection Reference Model. The OSI Model is the foundation for the internetworking of hundreds and hundreds of millions of computers. It is responsible for the Internet.