Description:
This book introduces the concepts and methods upon which computer networks rely and explores their applications to the Internet and Web. Accessible to readers with an elementary mathematical background, it illustrates mathematical and algorithmic concepts with examples from various fields, including literature, history, and art. The authors provide in-depth coverage of the mathematical prerequisites and assemble a complete presentation of how computer networks function. They cover computational complexity and randomness, networks and graphs, parallel and distributed computing, and search engines.
Review Quotes:
... a succinct introduction to the technical side of the computational science that supports the internet. ... The book's prose is exceptional. The authors are clearly skilled communicators and have undertaken a substantial effort to make the text enjoyable. ... a superb read for their targeted audience of curious people. ... I would consider using this text in a first-year seminar within the undergraduate curriculum, a setting for which it seems perfectly well suited.
--Allen G. Holder, INFORMS Journal on Computing, 2012
This book is an interesting (and oddly charming) look at just a few of the interesting mathematical and algorithmic facets of the Internet and the Web. ... I found it quite an enjoyable read--there were interesting viewpoints on several topics ... . It was nice to read a technical book that combines fun and serious information.
--Jeffrey Putnam, Computing Reviews, January 2012
Overall, a good introduction to the logical problems of the Internet. Recommended.
--P. Cull, CHOICE, December 2011
Networks are everywhere in our lives from the Internet to biological, social and financial networks. The authors have provided a lively, masterful, but easy-to-read introduction to a complex subject by enriching mathematical concepts with delightful paradigms and historical material. A pleasure to read for all students.
--Evangelos Kranakis, School of Computer Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada