open systems architecture (OSA)

Intelecommunications, an Open Systems Architecture (OSA) describes an open, vendor-neutral system architecture based on standards and well-known models such as that of Open System Interconnection( OSI).

An open systems architecture is a layered, hierarchical structured communications or data processing system. Such an architecture supports design, development, installation, operation and maintenance at the various hierarchical levels. Whereby each level is controlled by its own access functions of the level above. In addition, each level can be implemented on its own without affecting the others, helping to improve overall performance. Also, functions can be modified and without having to change the connected equipment or the protocols used. For example, in a communications system, the physical layer can be upgraded from copper-basedcables to fiber optics without affecting the other layers.

Since an Open Systems Architecture is designed to be standards-compliant, all standards-compliant equipment from a wide range of manufacturers can be connected.