How Networks Work (6th Edition) - Softcover

Derfler, Frank; Freed, Les

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0789727536 ISBN 13: 9780789727534

Publisher: QUE, 2002

Synopsis

How Networks Work is a stunning book, illustrated in full color, that takes readers through the inner-workings of network systems with simple explanations that avoid networking jargon.. The book begins by describing the basic principles of signaling and information packaging used in all systems and goes on to show how those principles work inside pieces of network equipment ranging from network interface cards to the Internet. This latest edition includes new technologies not covered in previous editions, including set top boxes, wireless palm, and more!

About this title

Review

If a picture is worth a thousand words, then Frank Derfler and Les Freed's fourth edition of How Networks Work is worth about a quarter of a million words. With lavish illustrations on almost every page, this book--like the entire How It Works series--teaches technology with detailed visuals on everything from the inner workings of a modem to the configuration of a Token Ring network. Departing somewhat from the usual form of the series, however, the authors take a historic approach. Part 1 briefly discusses the operation of the telegraph, telephone, and printing telegraph. This material is of interest, but is not presented with any detail (Edison's Carbon Transmitter, for example, is depicted as a museum piece with a bit of textual explication). Where the volume excels is in its diagramming and simplifying of complicated networked systems. The Network Interface Card is dissected, fiber optic and STP wires are cut open, and Server-Based LANs are mapped out. While Derfler and Freed don't address the nitty-gritty issues of picking specific machines and setting up specific networks, How Networks Work offers an essential first step toward understanding and implementing multiuser systems. --Patrick O'Kelley

From the Publisher

Ever wonder how your office computer network works? Or how the Ethernet card inside your computer connects you to that network or to the Internet? How Networks Work will give you a thorough, detailed explanation of the inner-workings of network systems without getting you caught up in network jargon. Learn the basic principles of networking and how those principles work inside pieces of network equipment. Complete with illustrations to show how things work together, this latest edition also includes information on the newest technologies, including VoIP, wireless networks, broadband and more.

About this edition

• Publisher: QUE
• Publication date: 2002
• ISBN 10: 0789727536
• ISBN 13: 9780789727534
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 6
• Number of pages: 233