Introduction to Networking
In This Chapter
The OSI Networking Model An Introduction to TCP/IP How IP Addresses Are Used to Access Network Devices How Subnet Masks Group IP Addresses Into Networks The Physical and Link Layers Networking Equipment Terminology Additional Introductory Topics Conclusion
Installing the Linux operating system is only the first step toward creating a fully functional departmental server or Web site. Almost all computers are now networked in some way to other devices; therefore, a basic understanding of networking and issues related to the topic will be essential to feeling comfortable with Linux servers.
This introductory chapter forms the foundation on which the following network configuration and troubleshooting chapters will be built. These chapters will then introduce the remaining chapters that cover Linux troubleshooting, general software installation, and the configuration of many of the most popular Linux applications used in corporate departments and Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) environments.
Familiarity with the concepts explained in the following sections will help answer many of the daily questions often posed by coworkers, friends, and even you. It will help make the road to Linux mastery less perilous, a road that begins with an understanding of the OSI networking model and TCP/IP.
 | 