An introductory text for technical and non-technical students in business, management, and information technology, as well as computer science and electrical engineering. Focusing on both fundamental concepts and practical applications, this data communications text is accessible to the novice yet challenging to the technical professional. Beyda provides a thorough introduction to telecommunications and a practical understanding of all relevant terminology, concepts, hardware, software, protocols, architectures, and other information to make the student literate in data communications.