This book brings together the essential elements of operating systems, computer organization and networks whilst also giving a practical overview of the subject. The gradual development of topics allows the reader to understand the fundamentals and as well as the bigger picture.

Introduces the technical principles of computer architecture, operating systems and computer networks and provides a practical overview. Contrary to many other introductory texts which tell what computer systems and networks do, this innovative book explains how these systems actually work. It explains how the interaction between hardware and software takes place in relation to network operating systems and demonstrates where programming languages and compilers fit into the development process of computer and network systems. Simplified examples of programs (written in 68000 assembly language and a small subset of Ada) illustrate how things actually work. It discusses existing network technology such as the Internet and WWW and includes numerous exercises, examples, summaries and suggestions for further reading. Additional material about the book is available via a web page, and all drawings and figures are electronically available. Supplements: Solutions and Additional Exercises available via URL http://www.cs.vu.nl/~steen/cno.html