In this article lung protective strategy using low tidal volume and low plateau pressure is discussed based on the Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Network protocol. The ARDS Network study, which reported a lower mortality with a tidal volume target 6 ml x kg-1 of predicted body weight, remains the only study to show that mechanical ventilation strategy improves outcome in patients with acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome. To liberate patients from mechanical ventilation in timely manner, daily assessment with spontaneous breathing trial is essential. Using weaning predictors or gradual withdrawal with SIMV mode prolongs the duration of weaning, and is not recommended.