Introduction to Data Communications and Networking

This is a thorough introduction to the concepts underlying networking technology, from physical carrier media to protocol suites (for example, TCP/IP). The author includes historical material to show the logic behind the development of a given mechanism, and also includes comprehensive discussions of increasingly important material, such as B-ISDN (Broadband Integrated Services Digital Network) and ATM (Asynchronous Transmission Mode). The book does not require that readers have had exposure to either electrical engineering or advanced mathematics, yet, it still comprehensive enough to challenge more experienced readers. Features include: the OSI (Open Systems Internetworking Standard); and examples, illustrations and practice questions.