The Architecture of Computer Hardware, Systems Software, & Networking: An Information Technology Approach, 5th Edition

PART FOUR

NETWORKS AND DATA COMMUNICATIONS

It is almost impossible to find a piece of computer-based equipment operating by itself, without connection to other computers. This is true of laptop and desktop computers, tablets, cell phones, automobile computers, even satellite TV receivers, and other computer-embedded devices. Computer networks are an essential part of the infrastructure of modern systems. Indeed, it would be fair to say that the Internet is an essential part of modern society as a whole. The three chapters that make up Part 4 of this textbook consider different aspects of the technology of data communication and networking.

Chapter 12 presents a careful, detailed overview of the essential features of networking. We consider the basic requirements for communicating data through a network. The primary theme is the basic concepts, nature, characteristics, and configurations of communication channels and networks. Topics include various models for communication channels and networks; the concepts of messages and packets; network topology; the classification of different types of networks, ranging from local area networks to the Internet; and description of the major devices and media used to connect networks together.

Chapter 13 focuses predominantly on TCP/IP and Ethernet, the two related protocol suites that, working together, are the basis for nearly all networking. First, a brief introduction to the concept of a protocol communication suite and explanation of how ...