About the Book

Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach Featuring the Internet provides a modern, top-down approach to the study of computer networking that begins with applications-level protocols and then works down the protocol stack. An early emphasis is placed on application-layer paradigms and application programming interfaces, allowing readers to get their “hands-dirty” with protocols and networking concepts in the context of applications they use daily. Proceeding through the layered network architecture in a top-down manner allows readers to focus on the network services that are needed and then, in turn, study how these services can be provided. Both the principles and practice of modern computing networking are covered.

Networking is much more (and much more interesting) than dry standards specifying message formats and protocol behaviors. Professors Kurose and Ross focus on describing the emerging principles of the field and then illustrate these principles with examples drawn from Internet architecture. The discussion is lively and engaging.

This second edition has been updated to reflect the rapid changes in the field of networking over the last few years. The entire text and references have been updated based on changes in the field and feedback from readers of the first edition.

New to this Edition
* Material on mobility and mobile IP, peer-to-peer networking, content distribution networks, SIP, Bluetooth and more makes this the most current book available.
* Expanded coverage of topics such as network security, BGP and CIDR, Internet backbones and ISPs, and more.
* More problems added to provide additional practice for students.
* Additional lab material, including a new lab on video streaming using RTP and RSTP.
* More Java applets added to the companion Web site.
* Total amount of PowerPoint slides for each chapter has been increased.

Features
* Focuses on a specific motivating example of a network—the Internet—as well as introducing students to protocols in a more theoretical context.
* Uses the layered model for the Internet (with a top-down approach), a popular approach that focuses on only the key layers that are covered in most courses.
* Includes material on application programming development.
* Identifies fundamental networking issues as well as approaches toward addressing these issues.
* Principles and Practice boxes throughout the book demonstrate real-world applications of the principles studied.
* Includes interviews with networking heavyweights and visionaries to provide students with motivational insights from experts.
* Provides a comprehensive companion Web site that contains links to the most current information on, and examples of, networking concepts, and provides Java applets that animate concepts.