Ethernet: distributed packet switching for local computer networks
Communications of the ACM
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The Kiewit network is a high-speed local-area decentralized network linking all Dartmouth College, USA, terminals and computers, both on and off campus. Its principal attributes are claimed to be high performance, flexibility, robustness, and low cost. A key philosophy is that of multi purpose gateway nodes to provide several alternative protocols. According to the college, considerable effort has been taken to provide long-term reliability, remote diagnostics and ease of maintenance. It is asserted that node failure or replacement will not stop the rest of the network's operation. The implementation of this network, which is expected to continue evolving in line with international standardization procedures in protocols and technical developments, is discussed.