viii Th e text is divided into 20 chapters to accommodate classes that are presented online or face-to-face. Th eoretically, the chapters may be covered in any order that meets the require- ments of the class. However, it is suggested that instructors follow the order presented in the text. ■ Chapter 1 Introduction to Networking provides a defi nition for networking, ex- plains its uses and practicalities, and off ers categories and topologies for various network types. Communication methods, protocols, the OSI model, networking media, and industry organizations are also covered, albeit in a cursory fashion. Many of these topics are also discussed at length throughout the text. ■ Chapter 2 Network Media—Copper-Core Cable discusses analog and digital signals, data transmission, and provides a foundation of electronic terms that will be used throughout the text. Th e bulk of the chapter is dedicated to coverage of copper-core cables. IEEE standards are introduced, as are types of wiring faults. ■ Chapter 3 Fiber-Optic Cable is dedicated to discussion of the characteristics of light. Construction of cabling and transmission methods are also covered, as are IEEE stan- dards and contributing factors to data loss. ■ Chapter 4 Wireless Technology covers various types and methods for wireless technology. Wi-Fi and the IEEE 802.11 standards are discussed at length. In addition, information about radio, microwave, satellite, and infrared transmissions, technolo- gies, and interference is also provided. ■ Chapter 5 Digital Encoding and Data Transmission enables students to learn about digital signals and encoding, data packaging and codes, and UDP frames. Additionally, a more in-depth look of the OSI model is provided. ■ Chapter 6 Network Operating Systems and Network Communication describes networking protocols and their functions in various operating systems. Information about common networking operating systems is also discussed. ■ Chapter 7 Microsoft Network Operating Systems presents Microsoft-created soft- ware used to facilitate network operation. Microsoft Server 2016 is included, but focus is given to universal information, such as common features, Active Directory structure, POSIX, and interoperability. ■ Chapter 8 Unix/Linux Operating Systems details a brief history of Unix and Linux. Students will also learn about the advantages and disadvantages of open-source systems and how Unix/Linux can communicate with Microsoft systems. ■ Chapter 9 Introduction to Servers off ers an in-depth review of server types and services. Students learn about the characteristics of SCSI, types of RAID systems, and external-storage systems. Also covered are ACPI and ACPICA standards, system resources, Fibre Channel, IQN addresses, virtualization, hypervisors, and resources for further study. Organization