This thorough primer examines the technological aspects of networking through a practical approach. Readers will gain knowledge of local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), the Internet, wireless LANs, wireless MANs, voice over IP (VoIP), as well as asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) and network security. Introductory chapters on foundational topics, such as data communications and computer architecture give readers the knowledge base they need to understand more complex networking concepts. This book effectively utilizes a practical approach to networking rather than a strict focus on theory or math, and requires no prior background in communications technology.