Switched Networks 13906 Essay Example

receive transmissions from one another, they can only do so in half-duplex mode, which means they are unable to send and receive data simultaneously. This limitation in Ethernet networks arises due to the fact that only one packet can be transmitted at a time, resulting in network slowdowns. To address this issue, bridges, routers, and switches are employed to reduce transmission time and improve overall performance.

A two-port bridge divides a network into two physical segments, allowing a transmission to pass through only if its destination is on the opposite side. It will transfer a packet to the other side only if required, thereby reducing network traffic as local traffic remains isolated to one side.

Routers connect multiple networks, ensuring the smooth flow of traffic and directing data to the appropriate network. Each port is assigned a distinct network number. Additionally, routers serve as a firewall. Bridges and routers share a common bus architecture, while switches eliminate it.

Ethernet switches divide a LAN into multiple dedicated lines. A switch port can be configured with either multiple stations connected to it or just one station. The rule is that only one conversation can originate from any port at a time, regardless of the number of stations connected to that port. All ports must listen before transmitting. When a single LAN station is connected to a switched port, it operates in full-duplex mode, which eliminates packet collisions since the ports are separate. Full-duplex switching allows traffic to be sent and received simultaneously. Ethernet networks typically range from 100 Mbps to 200 Mbps. (Hubs between a workgroup and a switch do not support full-duplex; the workgroup operates on unswitched ethernet.)

Switches are gaining popularity over routers and bridges as they now handle the segmentation tasks previously performed by routers and bridges. Switches have the ability to send traffic directly to its destination rather than simply grouping packets into separate paths.

RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) is a CPU type designed for processing in switches. While RISC is efficient for general or simple tasks, it may not perform as effectively for more specific tasks.

One advantage of using a RISC processor is its cost-effectiveness compared to a customized CPU. RISC processors are readily available and commonly used in businesses. They can perform certain functions similar to a router. However, one drawback of this particular type of RISC is that it functions as a store-and-forward processor, which makes it not as fast as an ASIC switch.

ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) is a commonly used design in switches for processing. These circuits are specifically designed to handle particular operations, with all functions being implemented in hardware. If any modifications are required, it is necessary to physically rework the hardware through manufacturing, as no software upgrades are possible.

Switching is benefiting another type of network architecture, known as token ring. The advantages of using switches in a token ring network include faster and larger networks. As switches perform the tasks of routers and bridges and are dedicated, it is logical for companies to increase their utilization in this type of network. Alongside this, there is another technology, called ATM, which is gaining popularity over ethernet or token ring.

ATM, also known as Asynchronous Transfer Mode, is a technology that is often referred to as the technology of the future, despite being currently in

use. One key advantage of ATM is its capability to transmit different types of traffic - such as voice, video, and data - through a single digital line. Moreover, ATM can handle scalable bandwidth due to its switching architecture, enabling support for multimedia applications and network expansion over time. Recently, businesses have been widely adopting ATM and conducting tests across various sectors. While some companies have already begun transitioning to ATM networks, others are awaiting technical committees to finalize standards that will add additional features and flexibility to their networks.

Companies are looking to comprehend the impact of ATM technology on their business as they acknowledge the significant decrease in the cost of ATM products in the past year. Despite the slightly higher cost compared to shared networks such as Ethernet and Token Ring, ATM justifies its expense with three times the performance, enabling enhanced workplace productivity.

With the increasing demand for speed and reliability, new technology is constantly being developed. Telecommunications professionals and businesses must grasp the potential of this new technology in order to enhance profitability.