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Chapter 7 begins the discussion of data communications, addressing a number of basic concepts. Data terminal equipment, data communications equipment, communications software, and the network are explained as the various functional domains in a data communications network. Protocols are examined, both as a concept and in terms of certain specific, baseline examples. Additionally, a number of key elements of a data communications protocol are discussed, with specific examples being provided. Network architectures are examined, with concentration on layered operations models, most specifically that of the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model. Discussion follows of the various influential standards organizations, with security techniques and issues serving as the conclusion.
Chapter 8 centers on conventional digital and data networks, which are based on the voice network model. Dedicated and circuit-switched networks are discussed in the context of both private and public data networks. Specific data network options, presented in rough order of deployment, include DDS, Switched 56, T-carrier, Packet Switching, ISDN, and Digital 800. While several of these network options (T-carrier, Digital 800 and ISDN) also support voice and video communications, they are particularly distinguished in support of data communications in the realm of the wide area network.
Chapter 9 steps away from the traditional wide area network (WAN) to explore the world of the Local Area Network (LAN). Although the concept of a local area network was first formally expressed in 1973, such systems have grown like kudzu in the world of data communications. This chapter defines LANs in terms of fundamental dimensions such as acceptable transmission media, physical and logical topology, baseband versus broadband, and medium access control. LAN network and LAN internetworking devices are discussed, including hubs, bridges, routers and gateways. Network Operating Systems (NOSs) are presented in the context of the client/server model and the fundamentals of LAN internetworking are discussed, with emphasis on the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) protocol suite. Chapter 9 finishes with a discussion of recent developments including virtual LANs, remote LAN access, and high-speed LAN technologies and standards.
Chapters 10 and11 deal with broadband networking, the high-speed future of communications. Chapter 10 is dedicated to the discussion of the physical infrastructure being built in support of broadband networking. The initial focus is on recently developed local-loop technologies, including both wired and wireless alternatives to traditional twisted-pair. SONET fiber optic networks, perhaps the ultimate in broadband wireline networks, is presented in detail. Chapter 11 focuses on broadband packet, frame, and cell networks, in the form of frame relay, SMDS, and ATM. The future of broadband networking is projected through examination of the concepts of Broadband ISDN (B-ISDN) and Advanced Intelligent Networks (AINs).
Chapter 12 explores the world of wireless communicationsnot traditional wireless transmission systems such as microwave and satellite, but rather special network alternatives. Popular options examined include Trunk Mobile Radio (TMR), paging, cellular, packet radio and wireless LANs. PCS and Low-Earth Orbiting satellites (LEOs) provide a glimpse into the future, or at least a potential dimension of the future, of wireless communications.
Chapter 13 profiles the Internet, which may, in fact, be the first version of the ballyhooed Information Superhighway. The origins of the Internet are examined, and its basic nature and structure are profiled. Internet access options, equipment, and costs are examined, and issues of regulation and security discussed. At least a sample of the more interesting and legitimate applications are explored, most especially that of the World Wide Web (WWW).
Chapter 14 provides a view of the world of video and multimedia systems and networks. The addition of a visual dimension enhances communications to a very significant extent, although it places great demands on the supporting network. As video and multimedia networking is highly capacity-intensive and as broadband networks are by no means fully deployed, cost-effective applications remain few. However, the future beckons, and the future includes video and multimedia.
Chapter 15 addresses Convergence. As the networked world becomes increasingly deregulated and as users develop an ever-expanding appetite for ever-more exotic and capacity-intensive applications, a host of companies are vying to satisfy that hunger. Local Exchange Carriers (LECs), or local telephone companies, and IntereXchange Carriers (IXCs) are considered by many to be the logical providers. Yet, they are being challenged by Community Antenna TeleVision (CATV) providers, data carriers, electric power providers, Competitive Access Providers/Alternative Access Vendors (CAPs/AAVs) and others to deliver voice, data, video, entertainment and other services. The stakes are enormous in magnitude. The outcome will shape the future of the networked world. The status, the issues and the likely outcomes are explored in Chapter 15.
Chapter 16 rounds out the tour of the networked world with a profile of regulation, both domestic (U.S.) and international. The origins, evolution and current status of regulation are tracked through key legislative, judicial, and agency events. Current regulatory issues are discussed with emphasis on deregulation and privatization, most especially in the context of the Internet and convergence.
Each of the 16 chapters addresses a key area of telecommunications technology and applications, with an eye toward the development of meaningful and cost-effective solutions to legitimate communications requirements. Taken as a whole, this document is a discourse on the origins, current status and foreseeable future of the networked world.
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