McGraw-Hill Lan Communications Handbook (McGraw-Hill Series on Computer Communications)

If you want to take advantage of all the power and versatility of local area networks (LANs), this book will show you how to do it in a logical, step-by-step manner. Included is complete information on LAN hardware and software that will enable you to decide if you need a LAN, and if so, how to go about purchasing, installing and using it effectively. The McGraw-Hill LAN Communications Handbook defines the key terms and components of LAN technology, and clearly shows how LANs can contribute to productivity, creativity, and competitive advantage in the workplace. You'll get an objective overview of the strengths and weaknesses of all major LAN vendors. There is detailed coverage of the pros and cons of the Ethernet Access Method, the Token Ring Access Method, LAN Internetworking, and the Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI). This expert guide also examines the latest wiring standards ... LAN servers, operating systems, and management techniques ... and how theory is implemented in practice, including the ISO model and how it applies specifically to LANs. It's all here in one convenient reference source - everything you need to put LAN technology to work for you!

Starting with the basic concepts and progressing to specifics, this handbook helps readers understand what a LAN is and does. It discusses every aspect of LAN hardware and software to help users decide if they need a LAN and, if so, how to go about purchasing, installing and running one.