Primarily intended as a text for undergraduate courses in Electronics and Communications Engineering, Computer Science, IT courses, and Computer Applications, this up-to-date and accessible text gives an in-depth analysis of data communications and computer networks in an easy-to-read style. Though a new title, it is a completely revised and fully updated version of the author's earlier book Data Communications. The rapid strides made during the last decade in the fields of data communication and networking, and the close link between these two subjects have prompted the author to add several chapters on computer networks in this text.

The book gives a masterly analysis of topics ranging from the principles of data transmission to computer networking applications. It also provides standard protocols, thereby enabling to bridge the gap between theory and practice. What's more, it correlates the network protocols to the concepts, which are explained with the help of numerous examples to facilitate students' understanding of the subject.

This well-organised text presents the latest developments in the field and details current topics of interest such as Multicasting, MPLS, IPv6, Gigabit Ethernets, IPSec, SSL, Auto-negotiation, Wireless LANs, Network security, Differentiated services, and ADSL.

Besides students, the practicing professionals would find the book to be a valuable resource.

The book, in its second edition introduces a full chapter on Quality of Service, highlighting the meaning, parameters and functions required for quality of service.