When multiplied by large numbers of end users, the bandwidth-hungry demands of desktop video, multimedia, imaging, workgroups, and graphics-intensive interfaces add up to a huge headache for today's network planners. Should you deploy full-duplex Ethernet or switched token ring? FDDI II, ATM-based LANs, LAN emulation (LANE), or multi-protocol over ATM (MPOA)? Here at last is an authoritative guide to the bewildering array of technology choices facing today 's beleaguered network planners. This timely new survey examines many recent LAN developments at the technical level - particularly with respect to ATM-based LANs, including LAN emulation. You 'll find out what the new technologies are, how they work, and why they may (or may not) represent cost-effective solutions for your enterprise. In clear, down-to-earth language the authors walk you through the pros and cons of LAN switching, virtual LANs, 100 Mbps LANs, routing, ATM LAN emulation, IP/multiple protocols over ATM, and much more. Armed with the information in this book, you 'll be able to evaluate competing vendors' claims coolly and confidently. Supported with over 60 helpful illustrations, this book is a real life-saver!
Introduction - The Brave New World of LAN Technology. Phase 1 - Bridging. Phase 2 - Routing. Phase 3 - The Quest for Higher Speeds and New Applications. ATM - An Introductory Overview. The ATM Apparatus to Support Legacy/Emulated LANs. LAN Emulation Concepts and Standards. Carrying (LAN-based) Traffic over ATM without LANE. Multiprotocol over ATM (MPOA). Wide Area Networking with ATM - More Options for LAN Interconnection. Other LAN Technologies - 100 Mbps Switched Ethernet, Switched Token Ring, et al. The Ultimate Goal - ATM-to-Desktop.