Choice Review

This book is ideal for individuals with previous exposure to local computer network design who seek a nonrigorous introduction to performance analysis of computer networks. For each network design considered, the authors include a description of its basic properties and relevant performance criteria, followed by the basic concepts for performance analysis. An analysis of blocking is provided for digital PBXs. Polling networks are analyzed with respect to average waiting time, average transfer delay, and average number of packets stored at the stations. Average transfer delay for transmitted packets is addressed for the major types of ring networks including token ring, slotted ring, and register insertion ring. For random access networks, the authors discuss several medium-access protocols and consider performance analysis with respect to throughput versus traffic. The authors present the material in clear and descriptive terms and provide numerous examples and illustrations that serve to clarify their discussion. Recommended for college and university libraries.-A. Lancaster, Bowling Green State University