Book excerpt: Do you want to find out how a computer network works? Do you want to understand what it all takes to keep a home or office network up and running? This book is all you need! It will help you navigate your way to becoming proficient with network fundamentals and technology. When the first computers were built during the Second World War, they were expensive and isolated. However, after about twenty years, as their prices gradually decreased, the first experiments began to connect computers together. At the time, sharing them over a long distance was an interesting idea. Computers and the Internet have changed this world and our lifestyle forever. We just need to touch a small button and within a fraction of a second, we can make a call, send a file or video message. The major factor that lies behind this advanced technology is none other than computer network. That's why it's important to know how it works! Networking for Beginners covers the following topics: Networking Basics - This chapter considers the needs of a real beginner in computer networking and covers the following crucial topics: definition of computer networking, types of computer networks, network topologies, and network architecture. Network Hardware - A comprehensive discussion on different network components that include routers, hubs, switches, etc. Network Cabling - This chapter discusses the different cabling standards include coaxial, fiber optic cable, and twisted-pair copper cable. Wireless Networking - Fundamental technicalities of wireless technology that is of great significance to the entire computer networking discipline. This chapter offers important information on how to enjoy the benefits of Wi-Fi technology and how to set up and configure a computer for wireless connectivity. IP Addressing - This chapter pays great attention to the basics of IP addressing, and the different number systems (binary, decimal, and hexadecimal) IP Subnetting - Introduction to concepts of subnetting. Network Protocols - Various protocols of the TCP/IP suite. Internet Essentials - Different terminologies regarding the Internet, the worldwide web, and the history of the Internet. Virtualization in cloud computing - Concept of virtualization, its relevance in computer networking, and an examination of cloud services. Network Troubleshooting - This chapter considers troubleshooting as a top management function. NETWORKING FOR BEGINNERS is an easy-to-read book for anyone hungry for computer networking knowledge. The language used is simple, and even the very technical terms that pop from time to time have been explained in a way that is easy to understand.