the computers. According to a picture found in the July issue of "PC Magazine", LAN's are connected by using a leased line connection between routers. The router then uses a frame relay connection to access the frame relay service, and then it is able to send information to the other LAN (176). In the CCNA Exam Certification Guide, it states that the main difference between frame relay and leased lines is the fact that frame relay is a "multi-access network", meaning that more than two devices can be attached to the medium (390). It also states that leased lines are the access link between the router and the Frame Relay switch (391).In the LAN Times Encyclopedia of Networking, it states that in order to obtain frame relay or leased line services a user must use a common carrier such as AT&T, MCI, Sprint, and the Regional Bell Operating Companies (RBOCs). These companies provide the physical connections to the frame relay network, which are usually in the form of leased lines (384). When setting up a frame relay network it is necessary to choose which common carrier will be used. After choosing which carrier a service needs to be chosen that best suits the customers' needs. The customer can choose between a variety of access speeds ranging between 56 Kbits to 1,544 Mbits. The customer then needs to plan on how to link from one site to the frame relay service provider by placing routers and other access devices at the site. These devices connect to the service provider's frame relay port which connect to the PVC's (386). Frame relay and leased lines are good ways to have data transferred in a fast and predictable manner. Frame relay would be used in a situation where there are many sites and communication needs to be established throughout the day. A leased line is used to keep a communication link established between 2 locations and usually also is needed throughout the day. Each data communication need depends on the situat...
