This book succeeds as a handbook--it is truly comprehensive. Unfortunately, it lacks depth in virtually every topic, and the writing is unacceptable--where was the editor?Anyone in a management position within an ISP--or consulting for one--will be most effective in their job if they are familiar with the material in this book. Starting with the history of the Internet, it zips through a quick introduction of TCP/IP and immediately becomes bogged down in an interminably long and obtuse discussion of routing (Perlman is both easier to read and more detailed). A tortuous 45 page discussion of VPNs concludes with a terse and useful 8-word definition.
In spite of its flaws, it manages to at least touch on telecom technology, QoS, security, the role of the Internet authorities, and relationships between ISPs. The majority of ISP product offerings are discussed, and it includes a lengthy discussion of ISP business models. Everything is here but marketing, which is covered in a different Wiley text.
The book tries to be all things to all people, but specialists in any of the areas discussed, from technology to business, could find a better, more specific source, and it could easily be half this length without losing any information. A usable handbook would be twice this size, and half as prolix. Until such a text exists, I reluctantly recommend this one. Skim it if you have to, but if you work in the business you should be familiar with everything in this book.
