TCP/IP Pour les nuls

TCP/IP for Dummies is for anyone who wants to explore what really makes the Web tick. In a lighthearted style, the authors explain the basics of TCP/IP and other technologies. They discuss what TCP/IP can do in the context of various types of networks such as LANs and WANs and briefly introduce the reader to concepts such as firewalls and client/server applications. The book continues with tutorials on SMTP--the standard mail protocol of the Net--and other bedrock protocols such as FTP, Telnet, and DNS in easy-to-understand language that demystifies the oodles of acronyms. Information follows on how IP addresses, IPv6, dial-up networking, and thin clients work.

In the Part of Tens section--a hallmark of the Dummies series--the authors go wild with lists such as Ten Reasons to use TCP/IP, Ten Frequently Asked Questions about TCP/IP, and Ten RFCs Worth Tasting. If you want to leave the safe world of your browser to go down the technical route, TCP/IP for Dummies offers an easy read and an informative presentation. --Stephen W. Plain