We begin this book with an introduction to the analysis, architecture, and design processes. Many concepts and terms that are used throughout this book are introduced and defined in this chapter. Some of these concepts may be new to you while others are presented in a different light. Glossaries of terms and acronyms are provided at the end of this book for easy reference.

1.1 Objectives

The objectives of this chapter are to:

1. Introduce the fundamental concepts of this book; the processes of network analysis, architecture, and design; systems and services; as well as their characteristics

2. Define several terms used throughout the book

3. Prepare the reader for the analysis process

1.2 Preparation

To be able to understand and apply the concepts in this chapter, you should be familiar with basic networking concepts, including functions and features of the TCP/IP protocol suite; technologies such as Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, asynchronous transfer mode (ATM), synchronous optical network (SONET), and frame relay; and the basics of network performance. Some recommended sources of information include:

• TCP/IP Illustrated, volume 1, by W. Richard Stevens, Addison-Wesley Publishing, January 1994

• Essentials of ATM Networks and Services, by Oliver Chukwudi Ibe, Addison-Wesley Publishing, January 1997

• ATM and SONET Basics, by George Dobrowski and Donald Grise, APDG Publishing, January 2001

• Switched, Fast, and Gigabit Ethernet, by Sean Riley and Robert A. Breyer, New Riders Publishing, January 1999

• Frame Relay: Technology and Practice, by Jeff T. Buckwalter, Addison-Wesley Publishing, December 1999

1.3 Background

Network...