Ethernet is simple and common.
However an Ethernet can be fully loaded by 6 to 10 workstations. Thus the problem for systems larger than just a few workstations is not LAN connection but LAN interconnection. With the power of work stations increasing this number can be expected to decrease. Now ATM is seen as the answer to the interconnection problem since it offers a chance to create a workable network modelk that can be used to effectively manage a data network. In this view ATM will be used intially as a cloud network to eliminate the complexity of the routing protocols.