Pcweek Switched & Fast Ethernet

This book presents an excellent overview of Ethernet technologies suitable for network managers who are thinking of moving to switched or fast ethernet. It's also a great book for anyone who wants a good description of how Ethernet technology works. The introductory chapter which gives an excellent history of Ethernet is also well worth a read.The book also includes chapters on Network Management and Ethernet Cards, which are topics that are opften overlooked in Ethernet books. Each section is presented in a stand-alone way, so you can skip the bits that aren't interesting.

The book provides a nice overview of Ethernet and Fast Ethernet and clearly outlines how it works and gives several examples on how to deploy Fast Enet. For me, I found that it was just the right amount of detail.

I have been working on a "vanilla" 10meg ethernet (campus) for 18 months which will soon be upgraded. This book explains, in very easy to understand terms/diagrams, all the definitions & technical terms required to both get a good grasp on the basics and prepare for the leap to faster networks. If you are thinking of taking a 3 day seminar on Fast/Switched Ethernet or maybe a college course, this would be a better investment of your time and money. The only caution I would give is that it was written in 1995 and some of the "cutting edge" items are missing but it sure lays the groundwork to understanding advanced networks