This text investigates the technical architecture, operational protocols, and integration strategies required to implement and maintain frame relay networks. Uyless Black, a recognized authority in telecommunications, utilizes his extensive background in network engineering to synthesize complex data standards into a practical framework. The book provides a comprehensive analysis of how frame relay interacts with modern protocols, specifically focusing on the transition toward voice and IP-based services.

Experts and network engineers frequently cite this work as a foundational technical reference for understanding legacy and transitional wide area network protocols. Readers often note the high density of technical prose, which makes it suitable for intermediate to advanced practitioners rather than casual learners.