This book lays the essential groundwork for understanding modern computer networks, including the Internet. Whether you’re a professional or a tech-savvy reader who simply wants to demystify networks, it will give you a clear and accessible introduction to the fundamental concepts — the concepts one must grasp to understand the topic as a whole.

Those who have previous exposure but feel some of the dots don't yet connect (e.g., software developers, system administrators, and computer science students) should feel particularly at home.

It deliberately keeps code and configuration listings to a minimum, preferring instead more intuitive, easily understandable explanations and analogies, without sacrificing clarity in the process.

If you’re planning on diving into the follow-up volume Learning Modern Networking - Software and Techniques, which will focus on more advanced, hands-on techniques, code samples, and troubleshooting recipes, this first volume will provide the conceptual background you need to confidently apply those practical skills, and understand what is (or must be) happening behind the scenes, rather than simply following instructions blindly. Even if you are not, this book provides valuable insights into the networks that underpin our digital world.