High-Speed Networks: A Tutorial

This book provides practical knowledge and skills on high-speed networks, emphasizing Science Demilitarized Zones (Science DMZs). It covers topics such as maximum transmission unit (MTU), switch architectures, routers buffer size, transport layer (layer-4) topics, applications (layer-5), and security considerations. It is suitable for students in computer science, information technology, and industry professionals.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 462 pages
Publication date: 20 April 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book offers invaluable practical knowledge and skills in the realm of high-speed networks, with a particular focus on Science Demilitarized Zones (Science DMZs). A Science DMZ is a specialized high-speed network designed to facilitate the efficient transfer of large volumes of scientific data. Recognizing the growing importance of such networks in today's data-driven world, this book provides a comprehensive exploration of Science DMZs and their role in addressing the challenges of transferring terabyte- and petabyte-scale data across various sites.

The book begins by delving into the limitations of traditional general-purpose networks, which were not originally designed to handle the immense data demands of modern scientific research. It highlights the various challenges faced when attempting to transfer large data sets, such as packet loss, latency, and bandwidth constraints.

To overcome these limitations, the book adopts a bottom-up approach, providing an overview of Science DMZs and their key features. It explains how Science DMZs are designed to optimize data transfer by incorporating specialized networking equipment, such as high-speed switches, routers, and firewalls. It also covers topics that have a significant impact on the performance of large data transfers, including maximum transmission unit (MTU), switch architectures, and router buffer size.

The book further explores transport layer (layer-4) topics such as TCP features, congestion control algorithms, flow control, and pacing. It discusses the importance of these features in ensuring efficient data transmission over high-throughput, high-latency networks. Additionally, it covers applications (layer-5) used for large data transfers, including file sharing, database replication, and scientific computing.

To enhance the learning experience, most chapters incorporate virtual laboratory experiments using network appliances running real protocol stacks. These experiments allow students to gain hands-on experience with the concepts and implementations discussed in the book.

This book is particularly valuable for students pursuing computer science, information technology, or similar programs. It serves as a textbook that provides a solid foundation in fundamental concepts related to high-speed networks and their corresponding implementations. It assumes minimal familiarity with networking, typically covered in an introductory networking course, making it suitable for an upper-level undergraduate course or even for professionals seeking to expand their knowledge in this field.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in learning about high-speed networks and their applications in the scientific research and data-driven industries. It offers a comprehensive and practical approach to understanding and implementing Science DMZs, enabling organizations to optimize their data transfer capabilities and meet the growing demands of modern data-intensive applications.

Weight: 730g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030888435
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022