Networking

This book provides a comprehensive look at computer networking from the point of view of the network administrator. It guides readers from an entry-level knowledge in computer networks to advanced concepts in Ethernet networks, muter configuration, TCP/IP networks, local, campus, and wide area network configuration, network security, optical networks, Voice over IP, and industrial networks. After covering the entire text, readers will have gained a solid knowledge base in computer networks. In my years of teaching, I have observed that technology students prefer to learn "how to swim" after they have gotten wet and taken in a little water. Then, they are ready for more challenges. Show the students the technology, how it is used, and why and they will take the applications of the technology to the next level. Allowing them to experiment with the technology helps them to develop a greater understanding. This book does just that. ORGANIZATION OF THE TEXT This text is designed to cover two semesters. The recommended chapters for the first semester are Chapters 1 to 8. Throughout the semester, the students will gain an appreciation of how basic computer networks and related hardware are interconnected to form a network. This involves understanding the concepts and issues of twisted pair cable, interconnecting LANs, configuring TCP/IP, subnet masking, basic muter configuration, and configuring routing protocols. Chapters 9 to 13 are recommended for the second semester and cover wide area networking, configuring and managing the campus network, network security, wireless LANs, and optical networks. The instructor can choose from the following topics to complete the semester: installing and configuring Windows 2003/2000 network server, Voice over IP, Linux configuration, and industrial networks. KEY PEDAGOGICAL FEATURES CHAPTER OUTLINE, OBJECTIVES, KEY TERMS, and INTRODUCTION at the beginning of each chapter clearly outline specific goals for the reader. NET-CHALLENGE SOFTWARE provides a simulated, hands-on experience in configuring routers. Exercises provided in the text (see Fig. P-2) and on the CD challenge readers to undertake certain router/network configuration tasks. The challenges check the students' ability to enter basic networking commands and to set up muter function, such as configuring the interface (Ethernet and Serial) and routing protocols (i.e., OSPF, BGP, EIGRP, IGRP, RIP, and static). The software has the look and feel of actually being connected to the router's console port. PROTOCOL ANALYZER SOFTWARE packaged with the text uses the Finisar Surveyor Demo. Examples of using the software to analyze data traffic are included throughout the text. NUMEROUS WORKED-OUT EXAMPLES are included in every chapter to reinforce key concepts and aid in subject mastery. CONFIGURING, ANALYZING, or TROUBLESHOOTING sections, as shown in Fig. P-4, are included with each chapter to guide the reader through advanced techniques in networking. KEY TERMS and their definitions are highlighted in the margins to foster inquisitiveness and ensure retention. FULL-COLOR FORMAT: Color is used throughout as an aid to comprehension and to make the material more visually stimulating. Figures, screen captures, and photos of typical networking equipment are provided in color throughout the text. EXTENSIVE SUMMARIES, QUESTIONS AND PROBLEMS, and CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS are found at the end of each chapter. An extensive GLOSSARY is found at the end of the book and offers quick, accessible definitions to key terms and acronyms, as well as an exhaustive INDEX.Beasley, Jeffrey S. is the author of 'Networking', published 2004 under ISBN 9780130986597 and ISBN 0130986593.