NetBIOS is a LAN protocol developed by IBMfor PC LAN communication. It was originally provided in ROM on IBM's PC network adapters, and later in loadable software code with IBM's LAN Support program. NetBEUI stands for NetBIOS Extended Unit Interface, and is Microsoft's version of NetBIOS.

What does it do?
NetBIOS is a protocol that incorporates parts of the OSI Reference model from the Network Layer to the Session Layer. It interfaces with applications on the high end, and with the datalink protocols at the bottom. It establishes sessions between hosts, handles flow control and error correction, and provides message delivery services between nodes. It is NOT a routable protocol, and therefore networks using this protocol have to be bridged (Many routers will transparently bridge unroutable protocols). NetBIOS uses names to identify nodes, and has a utility that provides mapping between these names and the physical addresses of the nodes.

How is it used?
NetBIOS is used as the native network protocol for IBMs OS/2 LAN Server. NetBEUI is used by Microsoft LAN Manager and Windows NT Advanced Server.

Where do I get more information?
Contact your local CBV Office.