Ethernet: Building a Communications Infrastructure (Data Communications and Networks)

A detailed presentation of Ethernet and its communication structures, balancing the necessary theoretical detail with practical examples and case studies. Reflecting the trend towards distributed computing, the book places strong emphasis on internetworking, LAN application, and LAN management.

Local area networks (LAN's) are fundamental to enterprise systems and, amongst the possible choices, Ethernet is predominant. It is therefore necessary to have a full understanding of Ethernet and its usage. This book provides such knowledge. Avoiding mere discussion of the medium access schemes and a replication of the relevant standards, this book emphasizes the use of Ethernet-based networks in a variety of applications, and discusses the various architectures which can be used to support these applications. Much attention is given to the problem of supporting and managing Ethernet-based networks. Although Ethernet is the book's focus, many of the techniques discussed can be readily applied to other types of LAN.

This book can be used as a tutorial and as a reference manual. Each chapter starts by introducing the necessary background material, and then addresses practical issues and product selection. Based on the authors' considerable experience, anecdotal references are made throughout to help enliven topics, so this book is equally well suited to students, managers, network user and communications professionals. Key features include: A detailed description and explanation of the different Ethernet LAN types such as Base Ethernet, Cheapernet, Fibre-optic Ethernet and Twisted Pair Ethernet Criteria for the selection of Ethernet devices LAN interconnection techniques using bridges and routers Alternatives for connecting different subscriber systems to Ethernet Profiles of protocols that use Ethernet PC networks and workstation clusters built upon LANs Wiring structures within buildings-detailed information for planning, operating, and managing LANs