It is essentials that readers understand both the technical concepts and the application of the concepts in the industry. This edition uses analogies, case studies and multiple diagrams to explain concepts and help reduce the complexity of the technical subject matter. Layering, organizing and making the information meaningful is the foundation behind the design and structure of this book. The first layer presents a high level view of the subject matter; terms are introduced and overviews presented. The second layer focuses on fundamental concepts such as protocols, the OSI layer and so forth. Once the core concepts have been defined, they are then incorporated into real world scenarios that are used to merge the theory with the application. Expanded section on telecommunications fundamentals. Presents the OSI model as it relates to common networking protocols. Includes a chapter on manipulating information for transport. New chapter on distributed switching systems used to carry VoIP. Provides readers with the latest methods used to route and switch traffic across the telecommunications network. Covers all three Service Providers, TelCo, CATV and Cellular. Suitable for anyone working in the telecommunications industry. Included in this group are Cable TV, Internet Service Providers, Telephone companies both incumbent and competitive and any organization that supports these industries. Equipment vendors may also find the book useful as it focuses on the Service Provider side of the industry - the group they sell to.