This document discusses local area networks (LANs) and their applications, architectures, and technologies. It covers:
1) Common LAN applications like personal computer networks, back-end networks, storage area networks, and high-speed office networks.
2) Key aspects of LAN architecture including topology (e.g. bus, star, ring), transmission medium, IEEE 802 standards, and the functions of bridges and switches.
3) Protocol architectures with descriptions of the physical, logical link control, and media access control layers, as well as common frame formats.