Learning about Comp Networks

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rockinruler

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Hi,

I've got computer networks as a subject this semester, so to actually learn the subject instead of just sticking to the syllabus, I decided to go through Tanenbaum. I've been recommended this book by a lot of teachers and seniors and I've only gone through chapter 1 till now (covers the OSI, TCP IP models and evolution of the internet right since ARPA was created), and I do not understand most of the text and it really bothers me.

I know I'm not dumb! When I read something, I have to know what each word means. Many times suddenly new words just pop into the context out of nowhere and all that's left is imagination.

I felt like I was understanding what was going on initially, but then in about 20/30 pages I never realized when things started becoming really abstract.

(Does anyone feel / Has anyone ever felt) the same way ?
If, or even if not, I need suggestions to know how to actually start learning the subject.
I sometimes feel I need a more practical based approach to entirely understand what's written in the book but have no clue to how to go about it

Please help !
(PS : Thanks for taking out the time to view my cribbing)
 
Well can't comment about Tanenbaum. But the problem is that, in our syllabus it's only theory based. You can look at Farauzen, I read it and I'm really satisfied. But If you are looking for something practical then join a course on Networking, go for CCNA etc.
 
I would love to go for a course on Networking if I'd have the time man.

Could you give me the title of the book ?

And what was your background before you read the book ? I mean, I know nothing at the moment about Comp Networks.
 
Well...the book is written in simple way....I don't think you'd have any problem. The title of the book is "Data Communication and Networks" by "Forouzan". BTW I'd suggest to read the book first from Library and see whether you can understand.

And about background I can say I knew nothing more than how to LAN two or three computers, colour codes of the cables etc.
 
Both Tanenbaum and Farauzen are good books! Just read everything you read twice. Each time you read, you understand something you missed out last time. Thats how it worked for me. I just finished 2 sems of cn. The only down side about the books is that they are completely theory. We have the practical part of cn this sem.
 
I too would recommend Tanenbaum's book for computer networks. Another very good book, a bit more practical would be TCP/IP illustrated 3 volume set(Vol 1 should be enought). After that don't forget Steven's other good book on programming networks. Unix network programming 2 volume set. Take it slowly, don't try to read all the books at the same time.
 
Farauzan is as easy as you can go... try it out. I am in 2nd yr engg. and we've been recommended Farauzan. Tbh.. i seem to know most of the stuff in there already :/
 
If you want to learn some real networking stuff read the starting chapters of Cisco Certified Network Associate Study Guide by Todd Lamle, for socket programming books by Steven are good. For the theory crap Tanenbaum.
 
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