1. A method by which a configuration workstation is used to generate configuration parameters for a network of workstations, comprising the steps of: generating and positioning by drag-drop manipulation icons for each of three or more first network objects on a graphical video display of the configuration workstation; generating graphical representations of paths and protocols connecting the first network objects on the video display; generating parameters for configuring devices in a physical network responsive to a network defined by a first combination of network objects and connections; and distributing the configuration parameters from the configuration workstation to corresponding devices in the physical network.