Packet Switching And X.25 Networks

This examination of packet switching applies the theory to the practical realities of running a real network. The text has been designed both for students who require an understanding of the international recommendations and professionals who have been tasked with the management of a network. The early chapters cover the bottom three layers of the ISO seven-layer model by referring to X.25 protocols, and cover terminal access to the network via PADS and the X.3, X.28 and X.29 recommendations. The salient points of Local Area Network technologies are discussed, and the benefits of the various approaches are considered. The IBM Systems Network Architecture is described for comparison with the CCITT and ISO systems. An extensive discussion of the practical aspects of wiring a cable includes sections on cable quality, dealing with non-standard devices and the use of a breakout box for diagnosing faults and finding out about unknown interfaces.