IBM’s Systems Network Architecture

Abstract

A network is more than simply a collection of machines and communication lines. A properly designed network serves a particular purpose for a particular user or class of users. In order to design networks for different users and purposes while minimizing design effort, one can employ a network architecture. In this chapter we look at the services provided by a network, examine what an architecture is, and then look at Systems Network Architecture (SNA),* its design principles and how it enables a network to provide the required services. Our discussion of the architecture appears in two major sections, transporting data and distributed programming. We have attempted to minimize the amount of jargon in this description of SNA. Necessary new terms are introduced in italics. After looking at the architecture, we conclude with a discussion of how SNA has applied the underlying principles.