How Data Moves Across a Network

This article provides a concise primer on how data moves across networks, comparing the OSI and TCP/IP models and explaining how each layer encapsulates data into PDUs such as segments, packets, and frames. It walks through the path from an application request on Host A to delivery on Host B, including the roles of ports, IP addresses, MAC addresses, and ARP, and concludes with key terminology to aid understanding of end-to-end data transmission.