Thoroughly updated to reflect the latest version of CompTIA's Network exam, Networking Essentials, 3rd Edition is a practical, up-to-date and hands-on guide to the basics of networking. Written from the viewpoint of a working network administrator, it requires absolutely no experience with either network concepts or day-to-day network management. This new edition splits the previous edition into two volumes. This first volume has been revised and reorganized around the needs of introductory networking students and assumes no previous knowledge. Clear goals are outlined for each chapter and every concept is introduced in easy to understand language that explains how and why networking technologies are used. Each chapter is packed with real-world examples and practical exercises that reinforce all concepts and guide readers through using those concepts to configure, analyse and troubleshoot networks. Students can practice online with hands-on router and switch configuration exercises, using the accompanying Net Challenge software. Table of Contents* Chapter 1: Introduction to Computer Networks* Chapter 2: Physical Layer Cabling: Twisted Pair* Chapter 3: Physical Layer Cabling: Fiber Optics* Chapter 4: Wireless Networking* Chapter 5: Interconnecting the LANs* Chapter 6: TCP/IP* Chapter 7: Introduction to Router Configuration* Chapter 8: Introduction to Switch Configuration* Chapter 9: Routing Protocols* Chapter 10: Internet Technologies: Out to the Internet* Chapter 11: Troubleshooting* Chapter 12: Network Security