In an age where more than five billion people use the internet, learning about computer networking can significantly increase your knowledge.
The best way to learn about computer networking is through books.
If you also want to gain more knowledge on computer networking, you are in the right place.
Here are the top twenty books on computer networking that will help you get started.
20 Best Books On Computer Networking
1. Network Warrior
Network Warrior: Everything You Need to Know That Wasn't on the CCNA Exam
Network Warrior is one of the most practical books you will find on the topic of computer networking.
Gary Donahue has written this book from his experience, which is why you will learn how to deal with real-life networks.
The author covers a complete overview of various technologies, such as routers, firewalls, and more.
If you are a Cisco administrator, you will get the most out of this book.
The topics covered in this book include the configuration of Cisco devices, firewalls, switches, VLAN, IP design, and much more.
Each topic is discussed in-depth so you can get the best out of it.
2.The All-New Switch Book
The All-New Switch Book: The Complete Guide to LAN Switching Technology
Technologies keep changing with time, and you need to keep yourself up to date with all these changes.
The All-New Switch Book by Rich Seifert and James Edwards is a comprehensive guide on the changing LAN switching technologies.
The primary aim of the book is to help you understand why LAN switching technology is crucial for designing a network.
It covers various networking topics, such as the design, application, and functions of LAN switches.
If you are a beginner looking to learn more about these technologies, this book will be the perfect choice for you.
The best part is that the author has written it in an easy and fun way to help you understand even the most complex topics.
3. Networking All-in-One For Dummies
Networking All-in-One For Dummies (For Dummies (Computer/Tech))
Don’t be fooled by the name because this book is great for beginners and professionals alike.
If you are a beginner, you will have all the information you need to know about computer networking in one place.
If you are a professional, then this can be your perfect reference book for networking.
You will get extensive information about various networking systems, such as Linux and Windows 10.
Besides that, Doug Lowe also covers new topics such as cloud-based networking, mobile networking, and security.
This book even includes all the recent trends that have taken over the world of computer networking.
4. CompTIA Network+ Certification
CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide, Seventh Edition (Exam N10-007)
Do you want real-life examples and clear instructions on computer networks?
If yes, then CompTIA Network+ Certification is the perfect book for all your needs.
It has hundreds of questions you can practice within the networking domain to boost your knowledge.
You can utilize this book as a reference for your job or as a study aid.
The best part is that it also offers its readers access to interactive labs and simulations and free video training.
If you are preparing for an exam on this subject, then you will love this book.
5. Networking Made Easy
Networking Made Easy: Get Yourself Connected (Computers Made Easy)
Get yourself connected by purchasing Networking Made Easy to boost your networking skills.
You will gain a high level of understanding from this book without requiring too many resources.
It is an easy guide that will help you navigate the complex world of computer networking with ease.
You will gain knowledge on various subjects such as wireless networking, cloud computing, IP address, networking hardware, network troubleshooting, and much more.
It will be a handy guide for you to refer to when you get stuck.
If you want more information, you can also visit the website of the author, James Bernstein.
The website is onlinecomputertips.com, and the author started it in 2005.
He writes most of the content himself, and new content is frequently published on the website.
Be sure to go through it to learn more about this subject.
6. Network+ Guide To Networks
Are you looking to become successful in a computing environment?
If you are, then all you need is Network+ Guide to Networks by your side.
It covers every topic under the sun, such as operating systems, software, hardware, and much more.
This book focuses on helping you solve real-life problems with computer networks.
You can apply what you learn to real life and see if it works for you.
Once you do, you will realize how handy this book is in troubleshooting and solving your networking issues with ease.
Keep in mind that this book will serve best for beginners working on virtualization-based projects.
That is because the authors, Jill West, Tamara Dean, and Jean Andrews, also talk from their experiences and help navigate the reader.
You can think of the book as your trusty guide in the world of networking.
7. Routing TCP/IP Volume One
The book, Routing TCP/IP Volume One is one of the best-selling books by Cisco Press that will offer you an in-depth understanding of the protocols of IP routing.
This book will not suit a beginner well, but it is ideal for advanced professionals in this field.
You will get to know more about IGPs (interior gateway protocols) and how to implement them by using a Cisco router.
You will also learn more about routing protocols, integrity, and much more.
The author also covers the integration of IPv4 and IPv6 in this book.
If you want to prepare for certification in CCIE Routing, this book will serve you well.
Besides that, even network engineers will get the most out of this book as they have experience using the Cisco IOS routers.
8. Mastering Python Networking
Mastering Python Networking: Your one-stop solution to using Python for network automation, programmability, and DevOps, 3rd Edition
As the name suggests, you can use this book to master Python frameworks and packages in no time.
Once you start using this book, you will understand how to perform management, monitoring, network automation tasks, network security, and much more.
If you are an engineer, this book will do wonders for your success on the job.
There are working examples in each chapter, which is why you will learn from real-world examples.
It also covers data analysis in-depth to help you expand your computer networking horizons.
The author, Eric Chou, has tried to write this book as simply as he possibly could.
You will not have to spend hours deciphering what they are saying, as it is easy to understand.
The key is to apply what you learn from this book if you plan on using it for a long time to come.
9. Computer Networking
Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach (6th Edition)
Computer Networking uses the approach of “top-down” to help you understand the subject in various layers.
You will get to know about all the vital concepts that will boost your learning of networking.
One of the best things about this book is the structure that it offers to the learner.
That is because two university professors, James F. Kurose and Keith W. Ross, wrote this book.
Whether you are a university student, a beginner in computer networking, or an engineer, this book will serve you well for a long time.
Even if you don’t have any knowledge of this subject, you will still find it easy to understand.
The book will guarantee that your foundation of computer networking knowledge is solid.
After that, it adds more layers to your knowledge to help you understand the complex world of computer networking.
The price tag is a little hefty, but this book is worth it.
10. Network Programmability And Automation
Network Programmability and Automation: Skills for the Next-Generation Network Engineer
People looking to learn how to use XML, Python, Linux, and JSON will love this book as it will teach you all about it.
You will also learn how to automate all these systems with ease using code.
It also covers topics such as Jinja templating, fundamentals of Linux, programming of Python, YAML, XML, and much more.
As you read this book, you will understand that it enables you to simplify various tasks, such as connectivity, configuration, management, and much more.
You will have the fundamental knowledge and skills for network automation and programming.
Businesses are facing the need to become more flexible and agile, which is where this book comes in.
If you are a network engineer, this book will be the best investment for your career.
It is a practical guide that will show you how you can use different tools and technologies.
11. Cisco Networking All-In-One For Dummies
Cisco Networking All-in-One For Dummies
As a professional, you need to have the right knowledge of your field.
If you are just starting out as a computer networking professional, then this book will do you wonders.
While it is a little technical, it is also highly practical, which will help you in beginning your career on the right foot.
It includes many Cisco examples and configuration commands that you can utilize and implement within your network.
Each chapter of the book will focus on a piece of specific knowledge or task to help you with different tasks.
It covers topics such as networking, routing, security, wireless, internet protocols, and much more.
The best part is that you will learn about challenging networking topics in a simple language.
It highlights all the practices and solutions you need to handle a Cisco router or switch.
12. Data Communications And Networking
Data Communications and Networking (McGraw-Hill Forouzan Networking)
Sometimes, the world of computer networking can get highly technical.
Because of this, many people find it difficult to understand the subject with ease.
Fortunately, you will not experience this issue if you purchase Data Communications and Networking to learn more about this complex subject.
It is one of the top books that will present all the knowledge you need in a straightforward manner.
The author uses a “bottom-up” approach to cover all of the material you will ever require.
There are more than 700 figures in this book, but don’t let that overwhelm you.
That is because the author explains topics by using figures without opting for any challenging formulas.
No matter how technical you think the subject is, this book will help you break it down.
13. The Home Network Manual
The Home Network Manual: The Complete Guide to Setting Up, Upgrading, and Securing Your Home Network (Home Technology Manuals)
If you want to perfect your home network without relying on a professional, this book is made for you.
It will enable you to make your home network secure, stable, and fast without spending a lot of money.
Some of the topics that this book covers include:
- Securing your home network from a hacker.
- All the vital components that make a home network.
- The best devices for a reliable home network.
- How you can set up a home network with ease.
- How you can diagnose and fix any technical home network issues.
- Tips for ensuring the speed of your home network.
- And much more.
The book will guarantee that you can keep yourself and your family safe within the home network.
Using the knowledge in this book, you can easily troubleshoot any issue and solve it in no time.
If you want to set up your home network by yourself, then this book is a must-have.
14. Computer Networking And Cybersecurity
Computer Networking and Cybersecurity: A Guide to Understanding Communications Systems, Internet Connections, and Network Security Along with Protection from Hacking and Cybersecurity Threats
There were more than five billion cyberattacks in 2020, which is why you must protect yourself from vicious attacks in the digital world.
This book helps you focus on the fundamentals of networking and cybersecurity so you can understand where to begin.
You will learn the different forms of hacking and how you can protect yourself.
By the end of the book, you will be much more confident in your knowledge of cybersecurity and computer networking.
The book covers topics such as cybercrime, phishing attacks, real-life cybercrime examples, malware, security testing methods, and much more.
The language is easy, and the author, Quinn Kiser, will pique your interest in the subject.
Once you begin reading this book, you will not want to put it down.
If you want to enhance your knowledge on this topic, then you must purchase a copy for yourself.
15. Cisco CCNA Certification
Cisco CCNA Certification, 2 Volume Set: Exam 200-301
Many people find the CCNA exam incredibly intimidating, but you can always prepare yourself with the right study aids.
Cisco CCNA Certification is one of the best books that will help you prepare for your exam in no time.
It will cover everything you need to know about Cisco technologies.
Besides that, you will also learn how to practically implement the Cisco solutions in your computer network.
Not only will you learn to pass the exam, but you will also learn how to apply this technical knowledge.
After you are done with this book, you will be incredibly confident to take the exam.
Remember that there are two books in this set.
Both of them will help you pass your exam and further your career in no time.
16. Learn Wireshark
Learn Wireshark: Confidently navigate the Wireshark interface and solve real-world networking problems
Wireshark is one of the most powerful and popular packet analysis aids available.
It helps identify any potential attacks and look for latency issues within the network administration.
If you want to learn the protocol and basics of this tool, then this book is for you.
It will help you analyze common protocols, pinpoint latency problems, troubleshoot network problems, and understand possible network attacks before they take place.
The book is the best way to help navigate the complex world of the Wireshark interface with much ease.
The book will take you through all the steps you need to take to download and use this interface.
As you advance in this book, you will learn how to solve any problems within the interface.
If you are a teacher, student, security analyst, or network administrator, then this book is for you.
17. Introduction To Networking
Introduction to Networking: How the Internet Works
Introduction to Networking uses a simple and clear approach to help you understand the protocols and architecture of computer networks.
Many people find networking complex, but it is all about having a solid understanding of the basics.
Once you have the basics down, you can take complex actions, which is what this book is all about.
Remember that this book will not help you through the certifications and various exams you might have to give.
If you are interested in such certifications, then this book will be a fantastic starting point for you to understand more about the subject.
It is affordable, and you will find it easy to grasp.
You don’t need any technical knowledge to begin reading this book.
Even if you don’t know anything about computer networking, give this book a shot today.
18. How To Measure Anything In Cybersecurity Risk
How to Measure Anything in Cybersecurity Risk
Many popular cyber risk management methods have failed, but nobody understands why.
If you want to get one step closer to understanding this, then this book will be the perfect choice for you.
It talks about the shortcomings of risk management practices in the current day and age.
Then, the authors offer solutions and improvement methods that one can take to fill in the holes in computer networking and security.
As a risk manager in the business world, this book will open your eyes to the groundbreaking realities we often ignore.
You will learn the various approaches to risk management at your disposal and which ones will work the best for you.
If you want to take a deep dive into the risk management practices of your company, then we recommend that you purchase this book.
It will be an enlightening experience that will help you do better for your company.
19. Linux For Networking Professionals
Linux for Networking Professionals: Securely configure and operate Linux network services for the enterprise
Linux is one of the most common operating systems, but it is also the most complex.
That is why many people find it hard to operate it and navigate through the configurations and services of the network.
While reading this book, you will learn how to configure common networking errors, solve network issues, and defend against common attacks.
It will strengthen your foundation of Linux concepts and how you can configure it within the environment of an enterprise.
As you continue reading and get towards the final chapters, you will be much more confident in using this operating system with ease.
20. Windows 11 For Seniors
Windows 11 for Seniors: The Most Complete Easy-to-Follow Guide to Master Your New PC. Unlock All Their Features with Step-by-Step Illustrated Instructions and Useful Tips and Tricks
Finally, we have covered beginners and professionals, but what about the seniors who don’t know much about technology?
If you are tired of asking the young for help with technology, then this book is for you.
You can also gift it to seniors in your family to simplify their lives.
The book will allow you to master your new laptop with clear instructions and an easy guide.
Once you are through, you will have learned how to use the various features and programs in Windows 11.
Gift this book to yourself and explore the wonders of the latest Windows operating system.
Conclusion
These are the top twenty books on computer networking you need to add to your collection.
You can select the books you think will suit you best and be the most useful in your career or student life.
Each book is unique, but all of them are easy to read and understand to help you get a great grasp on this subject.
Whether you are a senior, professional, beginner, or someone about to take a computer networking exam, these books are perfect for you.
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