Book excerpt: The core concepts and technologies of Windows networking Networking can be a complex topic, especially for those new to the field of IT. This focused, full-color book takes a unique approach to teaching Windows networking to beginners by stripping down a network to its bare basics, thereby making each topic clear and easy to understand. Focusing on the new Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) program, this book pares down to just the essentials, showing beginners how to gain a solid foundation for understanding networking concepts upon which more advanced topics and technologies can be built. This straightforward guide begins each chapter by laying out a list of topics to be discussed, followed by a concise discussion of the core networking skills you need to have to gain a strong handle on the subject matter. Chapters conclude with review questions and suggested labs so you can measure your level of understanding of the chapter's content. Serves as an ideal resource for gaining a solid understanding of fundamental networking concepts and skills Offers a straightforward and direct approach to networking basics and covers network management tools, TCP/IP, the name resolution process, and network protocols and topologies Reviews all the topics you need to know for taking the MTA 98-366 exam Provides an overview of networking components, discusses connecting computers to a network, and looks at connecting networks with routers If you're new to IT and interested in entering the IT workforce, then Microsoft Windows Networking Essentials is essential reading.