The network architecture puzzle

The phrases communications architecture and C4I architecture are frequently used to describe a variety of capabilities, networks, systems or combinations of them. However, there is little uniformity of understanding in architectural discussions, because the frames of reference are seldom common. This paper uses elements of the International Standards Organization (ISO) functional characteristics of network management as a starting point. It adds functions commonly associated with architectural considerations to develop an architecture baseline from which to develop or evaluate systems. This architectural concept is appropriate for complex local area networks (LANs), metropolitan area networks (MANs) and distributed network systems that incorporate LANs and MANs.