icbnet

Elsevier

One major issue arising from the parallel development of communication networks using different operational principles and focusing in various applications, is the interconnection of users belonging to heterogeneous communication environments. This paper examines the interworking of existing LANs and MANs currently under development with the ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) oriented B-ISDN (Broadband Integrated Services Digital Networks). The problem examined consists of the following parameters: (i) Alternative ways of connectionless (CL) data service provision by the connection oriented (CO) ATM network; and (ii) bridging protocols at the network access points. For (i), the CCITT scenarios are discussed and critically compared. Regarding (ii), a proposed bridge architecture is presented and its application to different LANs and MANs is investigated. The paper examines and critically compares the above cases, and discusses trade-offs in qualitative terms when different options are possible