New material on Internet telephony, security upgrades, and more!

Here''s how to build and manage a network, from the basics to the latest tools and trends

Got to get the office networked by next Friday? Leave the computer science PhD for another day and pick up this easy guide. This book takes you through hardware, operating systems, connecting, network management, security, and all the other information you need to tap into the power of modern networking!

• Build a network from the ground up

• Use cables, routers, and other hardware

• Optimize performance

• Secure your network

• Manage network use

• Use the latest storage and backup tools

Company just hooked you up to a network and you’re wondering what the heck you’re supposed to do with it? Tired of burning spreadsheets onto CDs just so you can share them with coworkers, and you’re wondering what it’ll take to set up a network in your organization? Been tasked with setting up a network and you don’t have a clue about where to begin? Don’t fret, you’ll find all the answers you’re looking for in Networking for Dummies.

Written for even the most network-shy novice, it begins with the most basic of basics—“A network is nothing more than two or more computers connected by a cable (or wireless adapter) so that they can share information”—and progresses through all the essentials, from cables, routers and hubs to building a wireless network. In clear, simple language, peppered with enough wry quips and jabs at the cult of IT to make it fun, Doug Lowe walks you through:

• What a network is and how to use it
• How to build a wired or wireless network
• How to secure and optimize a network
• How to troubleshoot a network
• Safely connecting a network to the Internet
• Networking with all major operating systems

This new edition of the bestselling guide features extensive updates on the latest networking tools and trends—including new Windows Vista and Server 2003 R2—the latest broadband options, new storage and back-ups, and an all new-chapter on VoIP and Internet telephony.