Aimed at novice network users, this book starts with an historical perspective of the computing industry. Having described the forces that brought networking about, the book, which has been updated to reflect improvements, outlines the components of a network and how the pieces fit together.

This book takes readers on a graphical tour of networking. Through illustrations, network maps, and easy-to-follow instructions, users find out how to connect to a network and use Local Area Networks (LANs) Outlines elements of a network, showing how they fit together as well as discusses Windows for Workgroups, NetWare, and LANtastic. Covers Various Software for IBM and Compatibles. This third edition has been updated to include discussion of the latest in networking technologies, such as network security, peer-to-peer networking, the latest in messaging standards, alternatives in groupware packages, multimedia LAN and WAN Internet applications, and networking in heterogeneous environments.