Издательство Artech House, 2004, -275 pp.There is nothing so certain in this world as change. Throughout the ages, wise men have made this point, and for several hundred years, change, in the form of the Industrial and Electronic Revolutions, has affected us all. As technology feeds on itself, the process continues. This book is about change, about the ability of the Internet to dictate technical direction through its overwhelming presence. With more than 200 million hosts generating traffic in this network of networks, it is no wonder that TCP/IP has become the protocol suite of choice to support the exchange of messages in commercial operations and residential activities. Developed initially for point-to-point data operations, it has been adapted to local area networks, wide area networks, radio networks, and for voice services, to the detriment of all other protocol suites. Data communication is an essential part of our lives. It continues to evolve to an activity largely directed by TCP/IP.
In writing this book, I have assumed that the reader is familiar with common telecommunications terms and practices. For those who may need a refresher, Appendix A describes some of the basic concepts that are employed in the text.
My book provides a comprehensive picture of the Internet protocol stack and the role of TCP/IP in data communications. It describes the TCP/IP suite in some detail and, for handy reference, contains Appendix B, which lists the fields of frames and headers used in this activity.
The book is a guide to the protocols, networks, codes, signals, and equipment that make it possible to communicate using TCP/IP. It explains advanced LAN and WAN technologies and gives an integrated view of bridging, routing, tagging, and labeling operations. In addition, it describes local loop technologies, particularly the limitations of twisted pairs, the use of optical fibers and radio, and the potential of pervasive voice over IP. This book is a ready reference to all aspects of data communication employing TCP/IP and includes a substantial glossary to provide explanations of the special terms that are the burden of every book on communications.
Conscious of my inability to treat each topic in detail, I have not tried to write a design manual. My intention is to paint the scene, to chronicle what is involved, and to promote understanding of how the pieces fit together. Where can you get further information? I have included a list of books that I like, and use, that can be of help. However, I suggest that the way to start is to use the services of a good search engine. There are hundreds of pages available on almost every subject that can point you in the right direction. We are in a dynamic environment. Change is everywhere, and new ways of doing things are being proposed even as you read these words. Like your new computer, most printed knowledge has aged, and is becoming obsolete, even before you purchase it.
Whether you are an IT professional, a business professional with data responsibilities, or a communications engineer wanting a handbook on the application of TCP/IP in contemporary communications, I hope you will find this attempt to cover the field in one volume worthwhile. In addition, if you are an undergraduate computer science or engineering student or a continuing education student with a software or communications concentration, I hope you will explore the field of data communication with this book as your guide.A TCP/IP World?
Data Communication
Local Area Networks
Wide Area Networks
Connecting Networks Together
Protecting Enterprise Catenets
Transmission Facilities
The Convergence of Voice and Data
Connections, Codes, Signals, and Error Control
Frames and Headers
