New edition of a text that covers key networking concepts with a focus upon what is really needed in today's jobs, including such things as LAN switching, security, and quality of service. Panko (information technology, U. of Hawaii) presents 12 chapters that cover basic concepts and principles; layered (encapsulated) communication for internet access; a closer look at HTTP, TCP, IP and PPP; physical layer concepts; modems and beyond; a small PC network; small ethernet LANs; larger site networks; wide area networking; security; networked applications; and looking forward. Annotation copyrighted by Book News Inc., Portland, OR.