This book is intended to serve the needs of individuals and information systems pro- fessionals who are interested in learning more about networking technologies, but who may have little or no background in this subject matter. In the first edition of this book, the materials were originally designed to help individuals prepare for Microsoft Certification Exam #70-058, "Networking Essentials." This Microsoft exam no longer exists, but this book's extensive and broad coverage of computer networking technolo- gies still provides students with a solid networking background to pursue a number of certifications, including Network+, CCNA, MCSA, Linux+, and CNA.

The fourth edition includes new coverage of Windows XP and Windows Server 2003, wireless networking, personal area networking, hand-held computing, firewalls, and virus protection. In keeping with the latest trends in networking, this edition provides updated coverage on network switches,VPNs, 10-GB Ethernet, and the latest on the 802.11 wire- less standards. In addition, this edition covers the latest bus interfaces and operating sys- tem features, including NetWare 6.5 and Red Hat Linux 9.0. These are just a sampling of the many additions and updates to this book, so read on and enjoy.

As an added bonus, this edition includes a CD-ROM packed with simulations that provide visually oriented students with an innovative tool to help them grasp difficult networking concepts. The simulations cover topics ranging from baseband versus broadband communi- cations to Network Address Translation (NAT) and Internet e-mail operation.|