TL;DR
Starting to learn TCP/IP? This guide recommends three books for different levels, from complete beginner to more advanced. We cover “TCP/IP Illustrated, Volume 1”, “Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach” and “Networking All-in-One Book”.
Understanding Your Learning Level
Before diving into books, consider where you’re starting from:
- Complete Beginner: No prior networking knowledge.
- Some Knowledge: Basic understanding of networks, IP addresses, and the internet.
- Intermediate: Familiar with network concepts but want a deeper dive into TCP/IP protocols.
Recommended Books
-
TCP/IP Illustrated, Volume 1: The Protocols (W. Richard Stevens)
Best for: Intermediate to Advanced learners.
- This is a classic and incredibly detailed book. It breaks down each protocol with clear explanations and packet captures.
- It’s not the easiest read if you’re starting from scratch, but it provides an unparalleled understanding of how TCP/IP works under the hood.
- Focuses heavily on the technical details of protocols like IP, TCP, UDP, ICMP, etc.
-
Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach (Kurose and Ross)
Best for: Beginners to Intermediate learners.
- This book takes a layered approach, starting with applications and working down towards the physical layer.
- It’s well-written and includes plenty of examples and exercises.
- Covers TCP/IP extensively within the broader context of computer networking.
-
Networking All-in-One Book (Doug Lowe)
Best for: Complete Beginners.
- A very broad introduction to networking, covering everything from basic concepts to more advanced topics like routing and security.
- It’s a good starting point if you want a general overview of the field before focusing specifically on TCP/IP.
- Includes practical examples and troubleshooting tips.
Getting Started with Packet Capture
Understanding packet captures is crucial for learning TCP/IP. Wireshark is a popular tool.
- Install Wireshark: Download and install from Wireshark’s website.
- Start Capturing: Select the correct network interface and start capturing traffic.
sudo wireshark - Filter Traffic: Use filters to focus on specific protocols or IP addresses.
tcp.port == 80(This filter shows only TCP traffic on port 80 – HTTP)
- Analyze Packets: Examine the packet details to understand the headers and data.
Further Resources
- RFCs (Request for Comments): The official documentation for TCP/IP protocols. Available at RFC Editor.
- Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera and Udemy offer courses on computer networking and cyber security.