Date: Thu, 16 Feb 1995 14:28:03 EST From: Rob Slade Subject: Book Review: "Computer Networks" by Black BKCMPNTW.RVW 950109 "Computer Networks", Black, 1993, 0-13-175605-2 %A Uyless Black %C 113 Sylvan Avenue, Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 %D 1993 %G 0-13-175605-2 %I PTR Prentice Hall %O (515) 284-6751 FAX (515) 284-2607 beth_hespe@prenhall.com %P 436 %T "Computer Networks" This is a very complete and well organized text on data communications. The intent of the work is to address the components of a computer network system, and this succeeds quite well. (Those interested in network specific topics, such as routing, should look elsewhere.) Areas covered include introductory material, layered protocols, polling protocols, satellite networks, local area networks, packet switching, X.25, digital networks, a brief look at TCP/IP, personal computers, PBX and upper layer protocols. Additional reference material is included in the appendices. Occasionally, the material becomes too specific and shows signs of age. The chapter on personal computer networks uses concepts and jargon which will be quite foreign to those familiar with the micro field. By and large, however, this is an excellent source not only for a general overview, but as a reference in a number of data communications areas. copyright Robert M. Slade, 1995 BKCMPNTW.RVW 950109. Distribution permitted in TELECOM Digest and associated publications. Rob Slade's book reviews are a regular feature in the Digest. Vancouver ROBERTS@decus.ca Institute for Robert_Slade@sfu.ca Research into rslade@cue.bc.ca User p1@CyberStore.ca Security Canada V7K 2G6