Data Communications Networking Devices: Operation, Utilization and Lan and Wan Internetworking, 4th Edition

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FUNDAMENTAL WIDE AREA NETWORKING CONCEPTS

The main purpose of this chapter is to provide readers with a common level of knowledge concerning wide area networking (WAN) communications concepts. To achieve this goal we will examine the fundamental concepts associated with wide area network communications. Commencing with a description of the three components necessary to establish communications, we will expand our base of knowledge by discussing the types of line connections available for use, different types of transmission services and transmission devices, carrier offerings, transmission modes and techniques, and other key concepts. In doing so we will obtain a base of knowledge that will allow readers to better understand how devices and transmission facilities are interconnected to establish networks and interconnect geographically separated local area networks which is the focus of Chapters 2 and 3. In addition, the material presented in this chapter will enable readers to better understand the operation and utilization of devices explained in subsequent chapters.

While the transmission of data may appear to be a simple process, many factors govern the success or failure of a communications session. In addition, the exponential increase in the utilization of personal computers and a corresponding increase in communications between personal computers and other personal computers and large-scale computers had enlarged the number of hardware and software parameters you must ...