Protocol Functions

After the introduction of basic protocol functions, this chapter deals with the advanced functions of communications protocols that are especially highlighted in network management and multimedia transmission. This chapter deals with the most important aspects of the network management: security management, performance management, accounting management, fault management, configuration management, and mobility management. During multimedia transmission over a well-managed network, another important question arises: How to ensure desired quality of service? This chapter presents methods for quality management, too. Finally, this chapter collects future trends of protocol functions based on the present directions of network technology development.