Computer communications and networks / John R. Freer

Written for computer and communications systems designers, this book provides a framework for understanding methodologies, techniques and standards. The emphasis is on practical information and established technology; basic knowledge of communications and a general familiarity with computer systems are assumed. The subject matter applies to both civil and military communications. Chapters 1 to 4 describe the basic principles and techniques which underly all forms of computer communication. Chapters 5 and 6 describe layered network architectures and interface standards which play an important part in the development of efficient and flexible computer communications. Chapters 7 and 8 describe and compare the more significant local and wide area networks. Network models and performance prediction is introduced, with examples, in Chapter 9. Chapter 10 introduces computing and software aspects, and Chapter 11 introduces communications security, an increasingly important requirement in civil and military applications.

Data communication concepts and alternatives; communications media; modems and multiplexers; network topologies, switching and access control; layered network architectures; interface standards; local area networks; wide area network standards; performance prediction; computing and software issues; threats to communications security; network implementation.