Demand for network bandwidth continues to grow, driven by the increasing number of systems used in network-intensive applications. LAN segmentation has been the prevalent method for addressing these demands and has been further popularized by trends toward server centralization. However, the implementation costs of LAN segmentation, as well as the real performance characteristics of conventional network components, have served to limit the growth of some Token Ring networks. Alternative technologies for addressing bandwidth demands present other inhibitors, usually relating to costs. Token Ring switching provides users with an easy, cost-effective technique for addressing these demands.