Network Tutorial delivers insight and understanding about network technology to managers and executives trying to get up to speed or stay current with the complex challenges of designing, constructing, maintaining, upgrading, and managing the network infrastructure. The focus is on practical knowledge aimed at continually improving the effectiveness and efficiency of core business functions. Enterprise networks, and the public networks that link them together, are an organization's primary strategic and competitive assets in the information economy. Consequently, a practical understanding of network technology is essential to managing a successful business or organization. Starting with the basic precepts of networks, the book explores protocols, hardware and software components, and the unique jargon of networking. Concepts are explained clearly and simply, without assuming an extensive understanding of network internals. The glossary provides a quick reference for unfamiliar terms. This fifth edition features extensive new coverage of network security topics, plus new and expanded tutorials on wireless networks, optical networking, virtual private networks, voice over IP protocols, and many other topics.