Integrated processors in internetworking applications

The availability of new technologies has resulted in a plethora of connectivity methods between computer users. Connectivity solutions between Local Area Networks (LANs) and Wide Area Networks (WANs) in client-server computing applications are continuously being developed to give single users, telecommuters, small office/home office (SOHO) and LANs at remote sites easy access to corporate resources. The most imminent users' need is the capability to communicate across heterogeneous networks, at times separated geographically by significant distance, both internal and external to administrative boundaries. Platforms that support a variety of WAN link protocols, such as Frame Relay, Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP), Multi-link Point-to-Point Protocol (MLPPP), CCITT X.25 are necessary to facilitate the communications between the enterprise and remote networks or single users. This paper examines and analyzes the employment of advanced integrated silicon communication controllers as cost effective and flexible platforms in internetworking applications.