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5 Approaches To Network
Printing
Overview
Configuring your network printing is based on the network protocols and host
environments you already use or plan to use. It is common to find multiple
network protocols co-existing in the same network.
The LineJet Print Server is a multi-protocol device that is able to
accommodate many protocols at the same time. The actual print job order
operates on a first-in/first-out basis. This means it is possible to configure your
LineJet Print Server using any or all of the methods listed in this manual for
use at the same time. This concept is what creates the ability to use powerful
printer management tools in parallel with the act of printing. The protocol for a
print job and the protocol for the management tool will often be different.
These ideas are also what differentiate networks by size and network protocol
use. Some common network arrangements include peer to peer networks and
print job servers.
Peer To Peer Networks
Peer to peer networks can be used when you have few machines, few
printers, only one network protocol, and when any host can print to the printer.
A variation of this is a mini-server which “shares” its printer with the other
networked computers in a single room or building. The LineJet Print Server
improves flexibility in printer placement and setup by becoming just another
“peer,” rather than dedicated to a single machine.
A common peer to peer network arrangement is comprised of Windows
95/98 with TCP/IP configured to use the netBEUI protocol to connect to the
print server. A second common extension of this arrangement is to install a
third party LPR PORT MONITOR on each PC and use simple TCP/IP to
connect to the print server. If Windows NT is used for the peer computers,
LPR is included and is easy to set up. Windows 95/98 does not have such a
monitor, but many are available for free for download from the Web.
