3Com 5000 ATM Computer Hardware User Manual


 
2
LAN E
MULATION
O
VERVIEW
This chapter describes the LAN emulation technology that provides an
interface between Ethernet and FDDI packet-based networks and ATM
cell-based networks.
This chapter contains the following sections:
General Definition of LAN Emulation
LAN Emulation Components
LAN Emulation Data Exchange
LAN Emulation Connections
LAN Emulation Operation
This chapter provides a general overview of fundamental LAN
emulation concepts and terminology. For more detailed information on
LAN emulation, refer to ATM Forum specifications LANE 1.0.
General Definition
of LAN Emulation
LAN Emulation (LANE) provides an interface between traditional LANs
and ATM networks. LAN emulation is defined by ATM specifications
LANE 1.0.
An ATM emulated LAN conforms to IEEE 802.3 for Ethernet LANs.
The use of LAN emulation bridge allows you to use a high-speed ATM
backbone to connect existing (legacy) Ethernet LANs. Figure 2-1
illustrates the basic function of LAN emulation.