Connection-oriented networks: SONET/SDH, ATM, MPLS and optical
networks
Perros H., John Wiley&Sons, 2005. Type: Book
Date Reviewed: Aug 8 2005
Finding your way in the complex and sometimes uncharted waters of
networking is not like cruising, it is like sailing. It is no wonder, then, that
the author, a keen sailor himself, successfully delivers to the reader the
many aspects of connection-oriented networks.
The book is structured and enriched in such a way as to serve primarily as a
textbook for both graduate and undergraduate courses on computer
networks. It could also be used as a reference book by those in the field of
computer networks, such as managers, academics, researchers, and system
designers.
It provides a clear and complete overview of connection-oriented networks,
covering both packet-switched and circuit-switched networks. A positive
aspect is surely the broad range of topics addressed in this book, such as
asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) and multiprotocol label switching (MPLS)
networks; synchronous optical networks and synchronous digital hierarchy
(SONET/SDH); and optical wavelength routing networks, the newly
introduced optical burst switching networks, the asymmetric digital
subscriber line (ADSL)-based and cable-based access networks, and
solutions such as voice-over ATM and MPLS.
The book is comprised of 12 chapters, all of which are supported by self-
review exercises and simulation-oriented projects. Extensive lists of
references are included, along with a preface, a short biography of the
author, and an index. A modern aspect to this book is its accompanying Web
site, which includes a solutions manual and a set of PowerPoint
presentations for instructors.
Chapter 1, “Introduction,” starts almost from scratch, discussing the concept
of connection and connection-oriented networks. The remainder of the
chapter briefly describes each of the book’s chapters and introduces the
reader to national and international standardizatio