Hybrid Network for Business and Information Systems

Abstract

Local Area Networks provide a way of linking together computers for the purpose of sharing resources such as information, communication, high-speed printing facilities, etc., within a small area or over a complete site. Computer networks for Information Systems are available in a number of different topologies utilizing different technologies. The main criterion for network use is that the networks are inexpensive to implement. The networks available range from dedicated networks with the main type of workstation designed for a single off ice environment (but also providing interface for the more popular personal computers), to third party networks designed to connect different networks over a large area. The purpose of this thesis is both to design and to simulate a medium accessing technique for a local network. The thesis highlights some of the other medium accessing techniques available, the topologies used in these techniques, and their advantages and disadvantages. The first chapter defines the problem and briefly proposes a solution to the problem. The second chapter puts the computer network into perspective by looking at different networks. The third and fourth chapters cover the design of the Network Architecture and the Network Manager respectively. Chapter five briefly describes the Data Architecture which was implemented at Business and Economics Research, Oklahoma State University. Results of the simulation conducted are discussed in chapter six of this thesis. Appendix-A provides the figures required in understanding the thesis. Figure (3), and Figures (4, 5 & 10) are referenced from [1] and [5] respectively. Appendix-B is a glossary of all important terms used in writing this thesis.