High Performance Networks

Several approaches have been used to build experimental gigabit networks in various industrial and academic research laboratories. Many lessons have been learned and progress has been made. This work contains a collection of chapters written by the principal investigators of some of the most representative pilot projects. Authors describe their approaches and provide some advice based on their practical experience. Projects covered include some national gigabit testbeds in the US (Aurora), Germany (Berkom) and Sweden (MultiG). Also described are gigabit research networks implemented in the labs of IBM and HP. The second part of the book covers the implementation of protocols for high performance systems. These include traditional protocols that can still be used in gigabit networks (such as TCP/IP and OSI-TP4) as well as newly proposed protocols (such as T++). An example implementation of a high performance ATM adapter is also presented. Professionals, engineers, and researchers in high performance (gigabit) communications who need to design and build such networks and protocols should find this volume a useful reference. The book is also suitable for use as a text for advanced courses on the subject.