When you hear computer networks, some people imagine tangled wires, endless IP addresses, or a Wi-Fi router that stops working right before an exam. But trust me—learning from the right computer networks book is much simpler than fixing your hostel Wi-Fi. It’s about understanding how your phone connects to Wi-Fi, how Netflix never stops buffering, and why your router blinks like a disco light.
I’ve studied these books myself, scribbled notes in margins, and even had those “aha” moments when the layers of the OSI model finally made sense. So, let’s talk about the best computer networking books that can save you from endless confusion.
1. Data Communication and Networking Book by Forouzan – The Student’s Favorite
- Author: Behrouz A. Forouzan
- Why it’s loved: It’s the standard for graduation students. Written in simple English, easy to follow, and yes, professors swear by it.
- Why I trust it: This was my first networking book. After two chapters, I felt less like a confused student and more like a future network engineer.
You can also find data communication and networking book by Forouzan on Amazon.
2. Advanced Computer Network – For Placements and Post-Graduation
- Author: Behrouz A. Forouzan, Firouz Mosharraf
- Why it’s great: Perfect if you’re preparing for higher studies or campus placements.
- Reality check: It goes a little deeper than the basics, but still manages to stay readable.
This book proves you don’t need to be a genius to understand advanced concepts—just patient.
3. Computer Networks Book by Andrew Tannenbaum – The International Classic
- Author: A. Tannenbaum
- Publisher: Pearson
- Why it matters: It’s a reference book, used worldwide.
- Fun twist: In OSI model, Forouzan and Tannenbaum both agreed upon 7 layers but Forouzan says TCP/IP model has 5 layers, while Tannenbaum says it has 4 layers. Both are right, but in India, colleges usually stick to Forouzan.
This one is like that wise professor who knows everything—sometimes overwhelming, but unforgettable.
4. Computer Network Book by Sanjay Sharma – The Indian Author
- Author: Dr. Sanjay Sharma
- Publisher: Katson Book
- Why it’s handy: Simple explanations, local context, and very useful for covering the syllabus.
Many students even look for the computer network book by Sanjay Sharma pdf when exams are near (we’ve all been there).
Best Book to Learn Computer Networking
- Graduation beginners – Go for Data Communication and Networking book by Forouzan.
- Placements / Post-Graduation – Pick Advanced Computer Network by Forouzan.
- Reference depth – Use Computer Networks book by Tannenbaum.
- Simple Indian author – Read Computer Communication and Networks book by Sanjay Sharma.