Computer Networking: An All-in-One Beginner’s Guide to Understanding Communications Systems, Network Security, Internet Connections, Cybersecurity and Hacking

How does a message travel from one computer to another—and what makes the internet work along the way? Quinn Kiser’s beginner’s guide starts with the building blocks of computer networking, then connects them to the services, equipment, protocols, and security topics readers encounter across modern networks.

Start with the foundations

The opening chapter introduces networks as connected computers that can share information and resources. It also explains core concepts such as bandwidth and data-transfer rates, giving readers a starting point for understanding why network capacity matters.

Follow the systems that keep networks communicating

From networking services and hardware to wireless communication and internet access, the book surveys several parts of the networking landscape. Its chapter on common protocols and ports names DNS, DHCP, HTTP, FTP, NNTP, and SMTP, helping place familiar network services within the larger picture.

Make sense of the seven-layer OSI model

A dedicated chapter introduces the OSI model as a framework for thinking about how computers communicate. The book also refers to the model when discussing networking services, giving readers a conceptual structure for organizing technical ideas.

Networking, security, and hacking

The later chapters turn to network security, cybersecurity, and hacking methods, including the kill-chain process described in the introduction. The book closes with cybersecurity tips labeled for 2020; readers should keep that date in mind when considering time-sensitive security guidance.

A broad first look for curious beginners

With its accessible explanations and wide-ranging chapter plan, Computer Networking offers an introductory survey for readers who want to become more familiar with networking concepts before exploring individual topics in greater depth.