"Computer Networks" by A. S. Tanenbaum is a good primary text for entry to mid-level students of Information Technology or
Business
Telecommunications. The text is structured in a logical manner with the intention of guiding the reader through successive levels of
understanding. The material is presented in a succinct manner, with sufficient depth to provide good comprehension.
The Fourth Edition (reprinted in 2003) presents contemporary relevance in a field that is fluid and evolving. Attention is paid to foundational items salient to the topic of computer networks, with a measure of historical reference to the telecommunications industry in general. Tanenbaum is not cursory in his treatment of history, but he is not pedantic either. There is good balance here. This serves to provide important information concerning the nucleus from which the communications industry began, but not so much information as to cause the reader to lose interest.
The technical aspect of computer networks is quite complex and contains its own unique set of acronyms and techno-jargon. Tanenbaum gives a superlative effort in maintaining the vernacular wherever possible, with concomitant supportive graphics to further enhance delivery and understanding. This is crucial to the learning experience. It is essential that a text form a bridge of facile communication through the use of common language and graphics.