LAN Network Protocols - Ethernet, STP, Fiber
Spanning Tree is an algorithm that runs on Layer 2 campus switches for preventing Layer 2 loops and broadcast storms on a network with at least 2 switches or bridges. The algorithm determines what ports at each switch or bridge must be blocked to create a loop free topology. More ...
Introduction to ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) Networks
ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) is a network technology to provide broadband services for the transmission of voice, video, and data at speeds up to 1Gbps. More ...
What is Fiber Optic Splicing?
Splicing is the practice of joining two fibers together without using connectors. Two types of fiber splices exist: fusion splicing and mechanical splicing. Splicing may be made during installation or repair. More ...
Routing Technologies, Bandwidth Management and Traffic Shaping
Bandwidth is the overshadowing issue for most network quality problems. The response to that problem is often to add more bandwidth. However, more bandwidth often comes at a relativel high cost. More ...
Here's a Quick Way to Build Your Fiber Optic Network
What is the most time consuming work in building a fiber network? Two works are usually thelargest line items in an fiber optic network installation budget: pulling the fiber optic cables and terminating or splicing the cables. More ...
Computer Network Routers, Hubs, and Switches
The most common components on a computer network, not counting cables, are "routers", "hubs", and "switches". Many of these modules can be appear similar and there can be significant overlap in roles. This article explains the difference between these important network components. More ...
Fiber Media Converter - What's the Use and How to Choose It
Fiber media converters are used to convert electrical signal to light signal and vice versa. They are basically used as network extenders to extend the distance from several hundreds of feet to several thousands meters. More ...
A Guide to Broadband Internet Connections
By this point, most of America already has a Broadband Connection to the Internet. But for those that have not yet taken the plunge, a world of benefits awaits you. Broadband can get you surfing up to 50 times faster than a typical 56K modem. More ...
Routers
Routers are sometimes confused with network hubs, modems, or network switches. However, routers can also provide additional features such as embedded firewall and content filtering software that provides an additional protection from unwanted content and malicious websites. More ...
VPN (Virtual Private Network) headend or Concentrator
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) uses 'tunneling', a process by which secure, encrypted packets are sent over a publicly shared network. More ...
Understanding Basic Terms in Indoor Fiber Optic Cable Installation
Fiber optic cables are exposed to electrical, mechanical, chemical and environmental elements, so proper installation is critical for the long-term stability and survival of fiber cables. Cable installation must also meet the NEC (National Electric Code) and local building codes. More ...
What is FTTP, FTTH, FTTB, and FTTD?
Some FTTx such as FTTN (fiber to the node), FTTC (fiber to the curb) depend on copper wires for final connection to the customers premises which contrasts with FTTP. FTTP can be further categorized into FTTH (fiber to the home), FTTB (fiber to the building), etc. More ...
Network Interface Cards (NIC)
Every entity on a network, a PC, printer, router, etc., that needs to communicate with other devices must have a NIC if it is to communicate over the network. NIC functionality is now often integrated into the motherboard chipset or implemented with a dedicated Ethernet chip on the motherboard. More ...
