The general model for network protocol standards is the OSI Reference Model of the ISO. LAN protocols are standardized by the IEEE 802 Committee, in the IEEE 802.x protocol model. Internet protocols are standardized by the IETF into the TCP/IP model. Standards surrounding the PSTN have long been generated by the ITU-T and ITU-R. Many national organizations - such as ANSI, TIA, EIA, and NIST- produce standards primarily for the US. 

Discuss the importance of standards in communications networks, with emphasis on IEEE 802.x and TCP/IP and their relation to OSI RM. 

Produce a significant main post, and respond to two classmates at least. Please make a commitment to enrich the discussion for shared learning