Java, intended for use on the Internet, was designed to support networking over TCP/IP. In fact most of Java's network support is unchanged since version 1.0. This book's examples use Java 1.1 and Java 2 (v1.2 and 1.3).

The author assumes you are a Java programmer familiar with AWT as well as Swing. He starts by claiming Java makes network applications easier to write than other languages. A bold claim.

In order to understand how to get the most from Java Network Programming the author goes into extensive detail on URLs, MIME, HTML and HTTP. But by chapter four you are writing simple apps to demonstrate I/O issues, then threads. In chapter six you are introduced to the InetAddress class so you can get out and about. Using just this you can write your own nslookup. Neat. Each Java networking concept is introduced, explained, demonstrated in a simple app and then incorporated into something useful. There is a lot of sample code, all downloadable.

Most of the book effectively deals with simple file transfer in order to focus on networking issues but in chapter 18 Remote Method Invocation appears which enables you to run distributed programs. RMI underlies network-aware applications. Toward the end of the book the author differentiates between protocol handlers--which deals with interactions between systems--and content handlers. Network-delivered content is often handled as a MIME type. This is carried to a logical conclusion in the last section on the JavaMail API.

Overall, Java Network Programming is a readable book which makes a complex subject accessible in a logical and structured manner. And he is right, network programming does look easier in Java. --Steve Patient

Clear and thorough, 02 Nov 2001
I've read most of the O'Reilly Java books and this has to be one of the best.

Java makes networking easy, and this book shows just how straightforward it is to create networked applications. Furthermore, if you're interested in more complex topics like how ContentHandlers, and Protocol Handlers work ( and how to write your own ) then this book covers that too.

The book can seem a little slow in places as the author explains nearly all the methods available. At the end of it all, however you come away with a thorough understanding.

All the examples work too! ( Well they did for the first edition ).

Learned, readable and packed with information, 17 Jul 2001
One of the best Java books out there. Earlier, I tried the Java network programming book from Manning Publications but it wasn't a patch on this. It covers everything from basic sockets communications to sophisticated client / server applications to SSL to content handlers, not to mention RMI and Internet mail. Heck, even the section which covers simple I/O is one of the best I've read. Simply outstanding.

The basics of java networking? Look no further..., 16 Mar 2001
Perhaps the best thing about this book is the clarity of the authors style. Some authors in this field do their best to obscure their subject, but this book is perfect for an introduction to Java networked applications. It also inspires the reader to see what is possible and encourages them to push back the boundaries.

Great for Java programmers, 26 Feb 2001
This book is great for Java programmers as it doesn't get bogged down on the networking details that are not required when carrying out network programming in Java. A great book!

2nd Edition is quality, 17 Nov 2000
A previous review of an earlier edition complained that the book used an out of date API and failed to go far enough in depth on the subject of networks and the internet.

The API part has been updated and is fine now. The subject matter is still aimed at a strong basic grounding in using Java to connect over the internet and not explaining any internet protocols.

The book is written well, as is the other book I've read by the author, Java I/O. It provides a very good grounding on network programming to people who are experienced in Java but whose limit in the network programming has so far been the URL class.

If you want to do more complex stuff, find an Internet Protocols book (OReilly do one). This book deserves an average of 5 stars.

Clear and thorough, 02 Nov 2001
I've read most of the O'Reilly Java books and this has to be one of the best.

Java makes networking easy, and this book shows just how straightforward it is to create networked applications. Furthermore, if you're interested in more complex topics like how ContentHandlers, and Protocol Handlers work ( and how to write your own ) then this book covers that too.

The book can seem a little slow in places as the author explains nearly all the methods available. At the end of it all, however you come away with a thorough understanding.

All the examples work too! ( Well they did for the first edition ).

Learned, readable and packed with information, 17 Jul 2001
One of the best Java books out there. Earlier, I tried the Java network programming book from Manning Publications but it wasn't a patch on this. It covers everything from basic sockets communications to sophisticated client / server applications to SSL to content handlers, not to mention RMI and Internet mail. Heck, even the section which covers simple I/O is one of the best I've read. Simply outstanding.

The basics of java networking? Look no further..., 16 Mar 2001
Perhaps the best thing about this book is the clarity of the authors style. Some authors in this field do their best to obscure their subject, but this book is perfect for an introduction to Java networked applications. It also inspires the reader to see what is possible and encourages them to push back the boundaries.

Great for Java programmers, 26 Feb 2001
This book is great for Java programmers as it doesn't get bogged down on the networking details that are not required when carrying out network programming in Java. A great book!

2nd Edition is quality, 17 Nov 2000
A previous review of an earlier edition complained that the book used an out of date API and failed to go far enough in depth on the subject of networks and the internet.

The API part has been updated and is fine now. The subject matter is still aimed at a strong basic grounding in using Java to connect over the internet and not explaining any internet protocols.

The book is written well, as is the other book I've read by the author, Java I/O. It provides a very good grounding on network programming to people who are experienced in Java but whose limit in the network programming has so far been the URL class.

If you want to do more complex stuff, find an Internet Protocols book (OReilly do one). This book deserves an average of 5 stars.

Very informative, 16 Aug 2008
This book is very informative, and an excellent reference to sockets programming. I refer to it time and time again, and is a welcome addition to my bookshelf.

Clear and thorough, 02 Nov 2001
I've read most of the O'Reilly Java books and this has to be one of the best.

Java makes networking easy, and this book shows just how straightforward it is to create networked applications. Furthermore, if you're interested in more complex topics like how ContentHandlers, and Protocol Handlers work ( and how to write your own ) then this book covers that too.

The book can seem a little slow in places as the author explains nearly all the methods available. At the end of it all, however you come away with a thorough understanding.

All the examples work too! ( Well they did for the first edition ).

Learned, readable and packed with information, 17 Jul 2001
One of the best Java books out there. Earlier, I tried the Java network programming book from Manning Publications but it wasn't a patch on this. It covers everything from basic sockets communications to sophisticated client / server applications to SSL to content handlers, not to mention RMI and Internet mail. Heck, even the section which covers simple I/O is one of the best I've read. Simply outstanding.

The basics of java networking? Look no further..., 16 Mar 2001
Perhaps the best thing about this book is the clarity of the authors style. Some authors in this field do their best to obscure their subject, but this book is perfect for an introduction to Java networked applications. It also inspires the reader to see what is possible and encourages them to push back the boundaries.

Great for Java programmers, 26 Feb 2001
This book is great for Java programmers as it doesn't get bogged down on the networking details that are not required when carrying out network programming in Java. A great book!

2nd Edition is quality, 17 Nov 2000
A previous review of an earlier edition complained that the book used an out of date API and failed to go far enough in depth on the subject of networks and the internet.

The API part has been updated and is fine now. The subject matter is still aimed at a strong basic grounding in using Java to connect over the internet and not explaining any internet protocols.

The book is written well, as is the other book I've read by the author, Java I/O. It provides a very good grounding on network programming to people who are experienced in Java but whose limit in the network programming has so far been the URL class.

If you want to do more complex stuff, find an Internet Protocols book (OReilly do one). This book deserves an average of 5 stars.

Very informative, 16 Aug 2008
This book is very informative, and an excellent reference to sockets programming. I refer to it time and time again, and is a welcome addition to my bookshelf.

An Exceptional Resource for Network Programming, 22 Sep 2004
Whether you just want to learn the concepts and practices that allow network programming to work or want to polish your skills in this area, The Definitive Guide to Linux Network Programming will serve you well. I have rarely seen a book about programming that managed to bridge the gap between newcomer and expert so well.

The authors clearly aimed this book for those who are programmers, yet they have made it accessible even to those who are not. Depending on how much you know about network programming, you can start at different points in the book. The authors kindly make suggestions in the introduction as to which sections are most relevant for those who are more expert already.

I was very impressed by the extensive amount of code that is included. In many cases, you will be able to program simply by using the examples in the book. That resource is nicely extended by two lengthy case studies that are intended to help you think your way through the process as well as to integrate the book's subjects. The first case study is for a networked chat application that is written in C++. The second case study looks at the many tricky security questions associated with any networked application.

The book is filled with guidelines and suggestions for when to favor which approaches among the many that Linux offers you. I was especially pleased to find out about many development and debugging tools that make the job easier.

Here's the book's structure:

Part One deals with the basics (networks, protocols, functions, socket programming, sessions and state). Part Two looks at design and architecture (emphasizing design decisions and development processes). Part Three is devoted to security.

Reading the book reminded me of what a great gift Linux is to us all in making it easier for us to use computer networks to communicate with one another. I kept shaking my head as I read the book trying to imagine how much more limited a book would have been that did not use Linux as its subject.

I thought that the discussions of security management were the best part of the book. They were clear, provided a good conceptual backdrop for the potential solutions, and made the solutions as simple as possible.

If you plan to do network programming with Linux, you owe it to yourself to read and apply this superb book!

Clear and thorough, 02 Nov 2001
I've read most of the O'Reilly Java books and this has to be one of the best.

Java makes networking easy, and this book shows just how straightforward it is to create networked applications. Furthermore, if you're interested in more complex topics like how ContentHandlers, and Protocol Handlers work ( and how to write your own ) then this book covers that too.

The book can seem a little slow in places as the author explains nearly all the methods available. At the end of it all, however you come away with a thorough understanding.

All the examples work too! ( Well they did for the first edition ).

Learned, readable and packed with information, 17 Jul 2001
One of the best Java books out there. Earlier, I tried the Java network programming book from Manning Publications but it wasn't a patch on this. It covers everything from basic sockets communications to sophisticated client / server applications to SSL to content handlers, not to mention RMI and Internet mail. Heck, even the section which covers simple I/O is one of the best I've read. Simply outstanding.

The basics of java networking? Look no further..., 16 Mar 2001
Perhaps the best thing about this book is the clarity of the authors style. Some authors in this field do their best to obscure their subject, but this book is perfect for an introduction to Java networked applications. It also inspires the reader to see what is possible and encourages them to push back the boundaries.

Great for Java programmers, 26 Feb 2001
This book is great for Java programmers as it doesn't get bogged down on the networking details that are not required when carrying out network programming in Java. A great book!

2nd Edition is quality, 17 Nov 2000
A previous review of an earlier edition complained that the book used an out of date API and failed to go far enough in depth on the subject of networks and the internet.

The API part has been updated and is fine now. The subject matter is still aimed at a strong basic grounding in using Java to connect over the internet and not explaining any internet protocols.

The book is written well, as is the other book I've read by the author, Java I/O. It provides a very good grounding on network programming to people who are experienced in Java but whose limit in the network programming has so far been the URL class.

If you want to do more complex stuff, find an Internet Protocols book (OReilly do one). This book deserves an average of 5 stars.

Very informative, 16 Aug 2008
This book is very informative, and an excellent reference to sockets programming. I refer to it time and time again, and is a welcome addition to my bookshelf.

An Exceptional Resource for Network Programming, 22 Sep 2004
Whether you just want to learn the concepts and practices that allow network programming to work or want to polish your skills in this area, The Definitive Guide to Linux Network Programming will serve you well. I have rarely seen a book about programming that managed to bridge the gap between newcomer and expert so well.

The authors clearly aimed this book for those who are programmers, yet they have made it accessible even to those who are not. Depending on how much you know about network programming, you can start at different points in the book. The authors kindly make suggestions in the introduction as to which sections are most relevant for those who are more expert already.

I was very impressed by the extensive amount of code that is included. In many cases, you will be able to program simply by using the examples in the book. That resource is nicely extended by two lengthy case studies that are intended to help you think your way through the process as well as to integrate the book's subjects. The first case study is for a networked chat application that is written in C++. The second case study looks at the many tricky security questions associated with any networked application.

The book is filled with guidelines and suggestions for when to favor which approaches among the many that Linux offers you. I was especially pleased to find out about many development and debugging tools that make the job easier.

Here's the book's structure:

Part One deals with the basics (networks, protocols, functions, socket programming, sessions and state). Part Two looks at design and architecture (emphasizing design decisions and development processes). Part Three is devoted to security.

Reading the book reminded me of what a great gift Linux is to us all in making it easier for us to use computer networks to communicate with one another. I kept shaking my head as I read the book trying to imagine how much more limited a book would have been that did not use Linux as its subject.

I thought that the discussions of security management were the best part of the book. They were clear, provided a good conceptual backdrop for the potential solutions, and made the solutions as simple as possible.

If you plan to do network programming with Linux, you owe it to yourself to read and apply this superb book!

The real power of UNIX is in communication, 16 Sep 2005
The real power of UNIX or any application for that matter is in interprocess communication. I found early on that to accomplish any large project would require the cooperation of interprocess communication. Now I find that simple administration skills also require knowledge of this interprocess communication.

My first foray into the field was to use semaphores to flag processes to run at the proper time. Later I needed to use pipes for a front-end in communication to SNA. Again I found IPC's could help inform and control processes that were in canned packages and not accessible any other way. The list of useful tools can go on and on. I also had to find the NT equivalent as it became popular.

UNIX is still out there in many forms and if one is to survive in the field an understanding of interprocess communications is imperative.

The Abbreviated Table of Contents:
Part 1. Introduction
1. Introduction
2. POSIX IPC
3. System V IPC
Part 2. Message Passing
4. Pipes and FIFOs
5. Posix Message Queues
6. System V Message Queues
Part 3. Synchronization
7. Mutexes and Condition Variables
8. Read-Write Locks
9. Record Locking
10. POSIX Semaphores
11. System V Semaphores
Part 4. Shared Memory
12. Shared Memory Introduction
13. POSIX Shared Memory
14. System V Shared Memory
Part 5. Remote Procedure Calls
15. Doors
16. Sun RPC
Epilogue
Appendix A. Performance Measurements
Appendix B. Threads Primer
Appendix C. Miscellaneous Source Code
Appendix D. Solutions to Selected Exercises
Bibliography
Index

One final note is that with systems dispersed globally Remote Procedures Calls are taking precedence in Interprocess communications.

This book is NOT about using networks in Unix, 20 Mar 2001
THIS volume is about networks in the sense of communicating processes - running mostly, though not exclusively, on the same machine.

If you want to know about using networks like TCP/IP, you need Volume 1.

If you want to know about using pipes, synchronisation etc. the examples and explanations are clear and well thought out. If you don't need quite the same depth 'Advanced Programming in the Unix Environment' by the same author covers much of the same material

Excellent book on Unix Interprocess communication, 05 Jan 2001
Most of the reviews here seem to imply this book is about sockets and TCP/IP. This book covers Unix IPC and describes the subject in detail. If you want to know all about sockets, you want Unix Network Programming, Networking APIs Sockets and XTI, which is Volume 1

Good but not thorough., 05 Nov 1998
I didn't get exactly what I needed out of this book. It's good as a reference, but I think it leaves out some information on different topics. The IPC section is a little skimpy, but then again it's not a book about IPC per se...some of the stuff the way it was written was not any more understandable than a manpage, and often you buy books hoping that they are worded less cryptically than manpages. On the upside, I got most of what I needed out of it.

As always, Stevens is worth every penny., 03 Nov 1998
Ok, I will admit to be biased. Stevens is a unix programming god. Or mine anyway.

However, I will dare say that again he has improved his previous good work. I felt that he improved and showed a lot more in his second edition of Volume I, and I felt the same way about volume II. While his was HARDLY the first serious book on thread programming that I have read (I also suggest programming with Posix Threads, if it interests you), his was very informative, from both a beginner and advanced standpoint. If you have only one author to buy, this is it.

Clear and thorough, 02 Nov 2001
I've read most of the O'Reilly Java books and this has to be one of the best.

Java makes networking easy, and this book shows just how straightforward it is to create networked applications. Furthermore, if you're interested in more complex topics like how ContentHandlers, and Protocol Handlers work ( and how to write your own ) then this book covers that too.

The book can seem a little slow in places as the author explains nearly all the methods available. At the end of it all, however you come away with a thorough understanding.

All the examples work too! ( Well they did for the first edition ).

Learned, readable and packed with information, 17 Jul 2001
One of the best Java books out there. Earlier, I tried the Java network programming book from Manning Publications but it wasn't a patch on this. It covers everything from basic sockets communications to sophisticated client / server applications to SSL to content handlers, not to mention RMI and Internet mail. Heck, even the section which covers simple I/O is one of the best I've read. Simply outstanding.

The basics of java networking? Look no further..., 16 Mar 2001
Perhaps the best thing about this book is the clarity of the authors style. Some authors in this field do their best to obscure their subject, but this book is perfect for an introduction to Java networked applications. It also inspires the reader to see what is possible and encourages them to push back the boundaries.

Great for Java programmers, 26 Feb 2001
This book is great for Java programmers as it doesn't get bogged down on the networking details that are not required when carrying out network programming in Java. A great book!

2nd Edition is quality, 17 Nov 2000
A previous review of an earlier edition complained that the book used an out of date API and failed to go far enough in depth on the subject of networks and the internet.

The API part has been updated and is fine now. The subject matter is still aimed at a strong basic grounding in using Java to connect over the internet and not explaining any internet protocols.

The book is written well, as is the other book I've read by the author, Java I/O. It provides a very good grounding on network programming to people who are experienced in Java but whose limit in the network programming has so far been the URL class.

If you want to do more complex stuff, find an Internet Protocols book (OReilly do one). This book deserves an average of 5 stars.

Very informative, 16 Aug 2008
This book is very informative, and an excellent reference to sockets programming. I refer to it time and time again, and is a welcome addition to my bookshelf.

An Exceptional Resource for Network Programming, 22 Sep 2004
Whether you just want to learn the concepts and practices that allow network programming to work or want to polish your skills in this area, The Definitive Guide to Linux Network Programming will serve you well. I have rarely seen a book about programming that managed to bridge the gap between newcomer and expert so well.

The authors clearly aimed this book for those who are programmers, yet they have made it accessible even to those who are not. Depending on how much you know about network programming, you can start at different points in the book. The authors kindly make suggestions in the introduction as to which sections are most relevant for those who are more expert already.

I was very impressed by the extensive amount of code that is included. In many cases, you will be able to program simply by using the examples in the book. That resource is nicely extended by two lengthy case studies that are intended to help you think your way through the process as well as to integrate the book's subjects. The first case study is for a networked chat application that is written in C++. The second case study looks at the many tricky security questions associated with any networked application.

The book is filled with guidelines and suggestions for when to favor which approaches among the many that Linux offers you. I was especially pleased to find out about many development and debugging tools that make the job easier.

Here's the book's structure:

Part One deals with the basics (networks, protocols, functions, socket programming, sessions and state). Part Two looks at design and architecture (emphasizing design decisions and development processes). Part Three is devoted to security.

Reading the book reminded me of what a great gift Linux is to us all in making it easier for us to use computer networks to communicate with one another. I kept shaking my head as I read the book trying to imagine how much more limited a book would have been that did not use Linux as its subject.

I thought that the discussions of security management were the best part of the book. They were clear, provided a good conceptual backdrop for the potential solutions, and made the solutions as simple as possible.

If you plan to do network programming with Linux, you owe it to yourself to read and apply this superb book!

The real power of UNIX is in communication, 16 Sep 2005
The real power of UNIX or any application for that matter is in interprocess communication. I found early on that to accomplish any large project would require the cooperation of interprocess communication. Now I find that simple administration skills also require knowledge of this interprocess communication.

My first foray into the field was to use semaphores to flag processes to run at the proper time. Later I needed to use pipes for a front-end in communication to SNA. Again I found IPC's could help inform and control processes that were in canned packages and not accessible any other way. The list of useful tools can go on and on. I also had to find the NT equivalent as it became popular.

UNIX is still out there in many forms and if one is to survive in the field an understanding of interprocess communications is imperative.

The Abbreviated Table of Contents:
Part 1. Introduction
1. Introduction
2. POSIX IPC
3. System V IPC
Part 2. Message Passing
4. Pipes and FIFOs
5. Posix Message Queues
6. System V Message Queues
Part 3. Synchronization
7. Mutexes and Condition Variables
8. Read-Write Locks
9. Record Locking
10. POSIX Semaphores
11. System V Semaphores
Part 4. Shared Memory
12. Shared Memory Introduction
13. POSIX Shared Memory
14. System V Shared Memory
Part 5. Remote Procedure Calls
15. Doors
16. Sun RPC
Epilogue
Appendix A. Performance Measurements
Appendix B. Threads Primer
Appendix C. Miscellaneous Source Code
Appendix D. Solutions to Selected Exercises
Bibliography
Index

One final note is that with systems dispersed globally Remote Procedures Calls are taking precedence in Interprocess communications.

This book is NOT about using networks in Unix, 20 Mar 2001
THIS volume is about networks in the sense of communicating processes - running mostly, though not exclusively, on the same machine.

If you want to know about using networks like TCP/IP, you need Volume 1.

If you want to know about using pipes, synchronisation etc. the examples and explanations are clear and well thought out. If you don't need quite the same depth 'Advanced Programming in the Unix Environment' by the same author covers much of the same material

Excellent book on Unix Interprocess communication, 05 Jan 2001
Most of the reviews here seem to imply this book is about sockets and TCP/IP. This book covers Unix IPC and describes the subject in detail. If you want to know all about sockets, you want Unix Network Programming, Networking APIs Sockets and XTI, which is Volume 1

Good but not thorough., 05 Nov 1998
I didn't get exactly what I needed out of this book. It's good as a reference, but I think it leaves out some information on different topics. The IPC section is a little skimpy, but then again it's not a book about IPC per se...some of the stuff the way it was written was not any more understandable than a manpage, and often you buy books hoping that they are worded less cryptically than manpages. On the upside, I got most of what I needed out of it.

As always, Stevens is worth every penny., 03 Nov 1998
Ok, I will admit to be biased. Stevens is a unix programming god. Or mine anyway.

However, I will dare say that again he has improved his previous good work. I felt that he improved and showed a lot more in his second edition of Volume I, and I felt the same way about volume II. While his was HARDLY the first serious book on thread programming that I have read (I also suggest programming with Posix Threads, if it interests you), his was very informative, from both a beginner and advanced standpoint. If you have only one author to buy, this is it.

Poorly written! Incomplete! Some good useful examples! Unfortunately nothing better up there!, 31 Oct 2007
A poorly written book!

It appears as if the author chose his chapter headings and section titles well to make it look at first glance like an in depth material covering a broad range of subjects. However, if you read the book you will notice that each section starts with a poor superficial introduction of the subject matter with absolutely no in depth material, followed by a very good example. I must say that most of his examples work, but you will have to scratch your head to know why. He doesn't even comment on his own code other than in a superficial way.
I tried to search for a good book on the subject and couldn't after a year of using this one. Being this the only valid source up there, you probably won't have a choice but to get it. It'll get you started, but you will end up having to purchase another book to complete your knowledge.


As reviewed in VSJ magazine (september 2004), 09 Sep 2004
This is a clearly written and interesting account of network programming using both VB.NET and C#. The use of both languages saves the publisher cost and risk of two editions of the same book but puts the reader to the cost of buying redundant pages. Given that C# and VB.NET are so close anyway, and most of the work is done by the common class library, it hardly seems worth the space given to listings in both languages. It's about time Microsoft decided which of its redundant languages was the one to go for ( as if we didn't know already ).
Returning to the book in hand. It is occasionally too low level - if you need to be told how to use Visual Studio then you probably aren't up to learning about network programming. Slowly this tendency to deal with the simple dies away, and we are left with some interesting descriptions of TCP, UDP, HTTP, SMTP, Remoting and web services. It also covers less common protocols such as telephony, MSMQ, IPv6 and low-level packet protocols. The examples are all described in short sections interleaved with text. The discussions are relaxed and informal and the author isn't afraid of upsetting people by pointing out the defects and restrictions of the technologies. This makes the book highly recommended, especially if you're interested in implementing any networking features using the ,NET framework

excellent intro to networking tasks, 27 Aug 2004
I really like this book, as it provides simple examples of how to do networking tasks without huge technical explanations, very useful for developers such as myself in the real world who don't have time for ploughing through extended theory sessions before getting to the end result.

Another reviewer has mentioned the lack of complete source code as a reason for giving this book one star. I say, you were supposed to be giving a book review, not a customer service survey. Anyway I spent about half an hour typing in the TCP/IP server code from the book and it all worked fine (and actually, typing it in, you learn more anyway).

Save your time and money, 11 Aug 2004
Even though there is some good information in this book, there is no complete source code provided. The author gives examples in both C# and VB.Net but will not provide a link to download the source code. After contacting the author, he replied that if he provided source code no one would buy the book!!??. Unless you want to type in a couple hundred pages of incomplete code, save your time and money on this one.

Clear and thorough, 02 Nov 2001
I've read most of the O'Reilly Java books and this has to be one of the best.

Java makes networking easy, and this book shows just how straightforward it is to create networked applications. Furthermore, if you're interested in more complex topics like how ContentHandlers, and Protocol Handlers work ( and how to write your own ) then this book covers that too.

The book can seem a little slow in places as the author explains nearly all the methods available. At the end of it all, however you come away with a thorough understanding.

All the examples work too! ( Well they did for the first edition ).

Learned, readable and packed with information, 17 Jul 2001
One of the best Java books out there. Earlier, I tried the Java network programming book from Manning Publications but it wasn't a patch on this. It covers everything from basic sockets communications to sophisticated client / server applications to SSL to content handlers, not to mention RMI and Internet mail. Heck, even the section which covers simple I/O is one of the best I've read. Simply outstanding.

The basics of java networking? Look no further..., 16 Mar 2001
Perhaps the best thing about this book is the clarity of the authors style. Some authors in this field do their best to obscure their subject, but this book is perfect for an introduction to Java networked applications. It also inspires the reader to see what is possible and encourages them to push back the boundaries.

Great for Java programmers, 26 Feb 2001
This book is great for Java programmers as it doesn't get bogged down on the networking details that are not required when carrying out network programming in Java. A great book!

2nd Edition is quality, 17 Nov 2000
A previous review of an earlier edition complained that the book used an out of date API and failed to go far enough in depth on the subject of networks and the internet.

The API part has been updated and is fine now. The subject matter is still aimed at a strong basic grounding in using Java to connect over the internet and not explaining any internet protocols.

The book is written well, as is the other book I've read by the author, Java I/O. It provides a very good grounding on network programming to people who are experienced in Java but whose limit in the network programming has so far been the URL class.

If you want to do more complex stuff, find an Internet Protocols book (OReilly do one). This book deserves an average of 5 stars.

Very informative, 16 Aug 2008
This book is very informative, and an excellent reference to sockets programming. I refer to it time and time again, and is a welcome addition to my bookshelf.

An Exceptional Resource for Network Programming, 22 Sep 2004
Whether you just want to learn the concepts and practices that allow network programming to work or want to polish your skills in this area, The Definitive Guide to Linux Network Programming will serve you well. I have rarely seen a book about programming that managed to bridge the gap between newcomer and expert so well.

The authors clearly aimed this book for those who are programmers, yet they have made it accessible even to those who are not. Depending on how much you know about network programming, you can start at different points in the book. The authors kindly make suggestions in the introduction as to which sections are most relevant for those who are more expert already.

I was very impressed by the extensive amount of code that is included. In many cases, you will be able to program simply by using the examples in the book. That resource is nicely extended by two lengthy case studies that are intended to help you think your way through the process as well as to integrate the book's subjects. The first case study is for a networked chat application that is written in C++. The second case study looks at the many tricky security questions associated with any networked application.

The book is filled with guidelines and suggestions for when to favor which approaches among the many that Linux offers you. I was especially pleased to find out about many development and debugging tools that make the job easier.

Here's the book's structure:

Part One deals with the basics (networks, protocols, functions, socket programming, sessions and state). Part Two looks at design and architecture (emphasizing design decisions and development processes). Part Three is devoted to security.

Reading the book reminded me of what a great gift Linux is to us all in making it easier for us to use computer networks to communicate with one another. I kept shaking my head as I read the book trying to imagine how much more limited a book would have been that did not use Linux as its subject.

I thought that the discussions of security management were the best part of the book. They were clear, provided a good conceptual backdrop for the potential solutions, and made the solutions as simple as possible.

If you plan to do network programming with Linux, you owe it to yourself to read and apply this superb book!

The real power of UNIX is in communication, 16 Sep 2005
The real power of UNIX or any application for that matter is in interprocess communication. I found early on that to accomplish any large project would require the cooperation of interprocess communication. Now I find that simple administration skills also require knowledge of this interprocess communication.

My first foray into the field was to use semaphores to flag processes to run at the proper time. Later I needed to use pipes for a front-end in communication to SNA. Again I found IPC's could help inform and control processes that were in canned packages and not accessible any other way. The list of useful tools can go on and on. I also had to find the NT equivalent as it became popular.

UNIX is still out there in many forms and if one is to survive in the field an understanding of interprocess communications is imperative.

The Abbreviated Table of Contents:
Part 1. Introduction
1. Introduction
2. POSIX IPC
3. System V IPC
Part 2. Message Passing
4. Pipes and FIFOs
5. Posix Message Queues
6. System V Message Queues
Part 3. Synchronization
7. Mutexes and Condition Variables
8. Read-Write Locks
9. Record Locking
10. POSIX Semaphores
11. System V Semaphores
Part 4. Shared Memory
12. Shared Memory Introduction
13. POSIX Shared Memory
14. System V Shared Memory
Part 5. Remote Procedure Calls
15. Doors
16. Sun RPC
Epilogue
Appendix A. Performance Measurements
Appendix B. Threads Primer
Appendix C. Miscellaneous Source Code
Appendix D. Solutions to Selected Exercises
Bibliography
Index

One final note is that with systems dispersed globally Remote Procedures Calls are taking precedence in Interprocess communications.

This book is NOT about using networks in Unix, 20 Mar 2001
THIS volume is about networks in the sense of communicating processes - running mostly, though not exclusively, on the same machine.

If you want to know about using networks like TCP/IP, you need Volume 1.

If you want to know about using pipes, synchronisation etc. the examples and explanations are clear and well thought out. If you don't need quite the same depth 'Advanced Programming in the Unix Environment' by the same author covers much of the same material

Excellent book on Unix Interprocess communication, 05 Jan 2001
Most of the reviews here seem to imply this book is about sockets and TCP/IP. This book covers Unix IPC and describes the subject in detail. If you want to know all about sockets, you want Unix Network Programming, Networking APIs Sockets and XTI, which is Volume 1

Good but not thorough., 05 Nov 1998
I didn't get exactly what I needed out of this book. It's good as a reference, but I think it leaves out some information on different topics. The IPC section is a little skimpy, but then again it's not a book about IPC per se...some of the stuff the way it was written was not any more understandable than a manpage, and often you buy books hoping that they are worded less cryptically than manpages. On the upside, I got most of what I needed out of it.

As always, Stevens is worth every penny., 03 Nov 1998
Ok, I will admit to be biased. Stevens is a unix programming god. Or mine anyway.

However, I will dare say that again he has improved his previous good work. I felt that he improved and showed a lot more in his second edition of Volume I, and I felt the same way about volume II. While his was HARDLY the first serious book on thread programming that I have read (I also suggest programming with Posix Threads, if it interests you), his was very informative, from both a beginner and advanced standpoint. If you have only one author to buy, this is it.

Poorly written! Incomplete! Some good useful examples! Unfortunately nothing better up there!, 31 Oct 2007
A poorly written book!

It appears as if the author chose his chapter headings and section titles well to make it look at first glance like an in depth material covering a broad range of subjects. However, if you read the book you will notice that each section starts with a poor superficial introduction of the subject matter with absolutely no in depth material, followed by a very good example. I must say that most of his examples work, but you will have to scratch your head to know why. He doesn't even comment on his own code other than in a superficial way.
I tried to search for a good book on the subject and couldn't after a year of using this one. Being this the only valid source up there, you probably won't have a choice but to get it. It'll get you started, but you will end up having to purchase another book to complete your knowledge.


As reviewed in VSJ magazine (september 2004), 09 Sep 2004
This is a clearly written and interesting account of network programming using both VB.NET and C#. The use of both languages saves the publisher cost and risk of two editions of the same book but puts the reader to the cost of buying redundant pages. Given that C# and VB.NET are so close anyway, and most of the work is done by the common class library, it hardly seems worth the space given to listings in both languages. It's about time Microsoft decided which of its redundant languages was the one to go for ( as if we didn't know already ).
Returning to the book in hand. It is occasionally too low level - if you need to be told how to use Visual Studio then you probably aren't up to learning about network programming. Slowly this tendency to deal with the simple dies away, and we are left with some interesting descriptions of TCP, UDP, HTTP, SMTP, Remoting and web services. It also covers less common protocols such as telephony, MSMQ, IPv6 and low-level packet protocols. The examples are all described in short sections interleaved with text. The discussions are relaxed and informal and the author isn't afraid of upsetting people by pointing out the defects and restrictions of the technologies. This makes the book highly recommended, especially if you're interested in implementing any networking features using the ,NET framework

excellent intro to networking tasks, 27 Aug 2004
I really like this book, as it provides simple examples of how to do networking tasks without huge technical explanations, very useful for developers such as myself in the real world who don't have time for ploughing through extended theory sessions before getting to the end result.

Another reviewer has mentioned the lack of complete source code as a reason for giving this book one star. I say, you were supposed to be giving a book review, not a customer service survey. Anyway I spent about half an hour typing in the TCP/IP server code from the book and it all worked fine (and actually, typing it in, you learn more anyway).

Save your time and money, 11 Aug 2004
Even though there is some good information in this book, there is no complete source code provided. The author gives examples in both C# and VB.Net but will not provide a link to download the source code. After contacting the author, he replied that if he provided source code no one would buy the book!!??. Unless you want to type in a couple hundred pages of incomplete code, save your time and money on this one.

Lots of examples, not enough fundamentals, 02 Oct 2006
Twisted is the Python asynchronous networking framework. It has the reputation of having a fearsome learning curve and I was hoping this book would help me overcome it.

Having now pretty much mastered twisted I can say that this book was less help than it should have been.

It lightly covers the many frameworks available in twisted: servers, clients, web, web servers, web rpc, authentication, mail, nntp, ssh, and processes. There is an example for everything.

The book is missing an explanation of the framework of twisted which is essential to using it. For instance the crucial subject of Deferred items was covered in 4 pages whereas it really deserved at least chapter on its own.

If you want to do something which is covered directly in the book then the book will make it easy. If it isn't covered directly then you'll struggle. I regret to say I got more out of reading twisted's source code than I did from this book.

Clear and thorough, 02 Nov 2001
I've read most of the O'Reilly Java books and this has to be one of the best.

Java makes networking easy, and this book shows just how straightforward it is to create networked applications. Furthermore, if you're interested in more complex topics like how ContentHandlers, and Protocol Handlers work ( and how to write your own ) then this book covers that too.

The book can seem a little slow in places as the author explains nearly all the methods available. At the end of it all, however you come away with a thorough understanding.

All the examples work too! ( Well they did for the first edition ).

Learned, readable and packed with information, 17 Jul 2001
One of the best Java books out there. Earlier, I tried the Java network programming book from Manning Publications but it wasn't a patch on this. It covers everything from basic sockets communications to sophisticated client / server applications to SSL to content handlers, not to mention RMI and Internet mail. Heck, even the section which covers simple I/O is one of the best I've read. Simply outstanding.

The basics of java networking? Look no further..., 16 Mar 2001
Perhaps the best thing about this book is the clarity of the authors style. Some authors in this field do their best to obscure their subject, but this book is perfect for an introduction to Java networked applications. It also inspires the reader to see what is possible and encourages them to push back the boundaries.

Great for Java programmers, 26 Feb 2001
This book is great for Java programmers as it doesn't get bogged down on the networking details that are not required when carrying out network programming in Java. A great book!

2nd Edition is quality, 17 Nov 2000
A previous review of an earlier edition complained that the book used an out of date API and failed to go far enough in depth on the subject of networks and the internet.

The API part has been updated and is fine now. The subject matter is still aimed at a strong basic grounding in using Java to connect over the internet and not explaining any internet protocols.

The book is written well, as is the other book I've read by the author, Java I/O. It provides a very good grounding on network programming to people who are experienced in Java but whose limit in the network programming has so far been the URL class.

If you want to do more complex stuff, find an Internet Protocols book (OReilly do one). This book deserves an average of 5 stars.

Very informative, 16 Aug 2008
This book is very informative, and an excellent reference to sockets programming. I refer to it time and time again, and is a welcome addition to my bookshelf.

An Exceptional Resource for Network Programming, 22 Sep 2004
Whether you just want to learn the concepts and practices that allow network programming to work or want to polish your skills in this area, The Definitive Guide to Linux Network Programming will serve you well. I have rarely seen a book about programming that managed to bridge the gap between newcomer and expert so well.

The authors clearly aimed this book for those who are programmers, yet they have made it accessible even to those who are not. Depending on how much you know about network programming, you can start at different points in the book. The authors kindly make suggestions in the introduction as to which sections are most relevant for those who are more expert already.

I was very impressed by the extensive amount of code that is included. In many cases, you will be able to program simply by using the examples in the book. That resource is nicely extended by two lengthy case studies that are intended to help you think your way through the process as well as to integrate the book's subjects. The first case study is for a networked chat application that is written in C++. The second case study looks at the many tricky security questions associated with any networked application.

The book is filled with guidelines and suggestions for when to favor which approaches among the many that Linux offers you. I was especially pleased to find out about many development and debugging tools that make the job easier.

Here's the book's structure:

Part One deals with the basics (networks, protocols, functions, socket programming, sessions and state). Part Two looks at design and architecture (emphasizing design decisions and development processes). Part Three is devoted to security.

Reading the book reminded me of what a great gift Linux is to us all in making it easier for us to use computer networks to communicate with one another. I kept shaking my head as I read the book trying to imagine how much more limited a book would have been that did not use Linux as its subject.

I thought that the discussions of security management were the best part of the book. They were clear, provided a good conceptual backdrop for the potential solutions, and made the solutions as simple as possible.

If you plan to do network programming with Linux, you owe it to yourself to read and apply this superb book!

The real power of UNIX is in communication, 16 Sep 2005
The real power of UNIX or any application for that matter is in interprocess communication. I found early on that to accomplish any large project would require the cooperation of interprocess communication. Now I find that simple administration skills also require knowledge of this interprocess communication.

My first foray into the field was to use semaphores to flag processes to run at the proper time. Later I needed to use pipes for a front-end in communication to SNA. Again I found IPC's could help inform and control processes that were in canned packages and not accessible any other way. The list of useful tools can go on and on. I also had to find the NT equivalent as it became popular.

UNIX is still out there in many forms and if one is to survive in the field an understanding of interprocess communications is imperative.

The Abbreviated Table of Contents:
Part 1. Introduction
1. Introduction
2. POSIX IPC
3. System V IPC
Part 2. Message Passing
4. Pipes and FIFOs
5. Posix Message Queues
6. System V Message Queues
Part 3. Synchronization
7. Mutexes and Condition Variables
8. Read-Write Locks
9. Record Locking
10. POSIX Semaphores
11. System V Semaphores
Part 4. Shared Memory
12. Shared Memory Introduction
13. POSIX Shared Memory
14. System V Shared Memory
Part 5. Remote Procedure Calls
15. Doors
16. Sun RPC
Epilogue
Appendix A. Performance Measurements
Appendix B. Threads Primer
Appendix C. Miscellaneous Source Code
Appendix D. Solutions to Selected Exercises
Bibliography
Index

One final note is that with systems dispersed globally Remote Procedures Calls are taking precedence in Interprocess communications.

This book is NOT about using networks in Unix, 20 Mar 2001
THIS volume is about networks in the sense of communicating processes - running mostly, though not exclusively, on the same machine.

If you want to know about using networks like TCP/IP, you need Volume 1.

If you want to know about using pipes, synchronisation etc. the examples and explanations are clear and well thought out. If you don't need quite the same depth 'Advanced Programming in the Unix Environment' by the same author covers much of the same material

Excellent book on Unix Interprocess communication, 05 Jan 2001
Most of the reviews here seem to imply this book is about sockets and TCP/IP. This book covers Unix IPC and describes the subject in detail. If you want to know all about sockets, you want Unix Network Programming, Networking APIs Sockets and XTI, which is Volume 1

Good but not thorough., 05 Nov 1998
I didn't get exactly what I needed out of this book. It's good as a reference, but I think it leaves out some information on different topics. The IPC section is a little skimpy, but then again it's not a book about IPC per se...some of the stuff the way it was written was not any more understandable than a manpage, and often you buy books hoping that they are worded less cryptically than manpages. On the upside, I got most of what I needed out of it.

As always, Stevens is worth every penny., 03 Nov 1998
Ok, I will admit to be biased. Stevens is a unix programming god. Or mine anyway.

However, I will dare say that again he has improved his previous good work. I felt that he improved and showed a lot more in his second edition of Volume I, and I felt the same way about volume II. While his was HARDLY the first serious book on thread programming that I have read (I also suggest programming with Posix Threads, if it interests you), his was very informative, from both a beginner and advanced standpoint. If you have only one author to buy, this is it.

Poorly written! Incomplete! Some good useful examples! Unfortunately nothing better up there!, 31 Oct 2007
A poorly written book!

It appears as if the author chose his chapter headings and section titles well to make it look at first glance like an in depth material covering a broad range of subjects. However, if you read the book you will notice that each section starts with a poor superficial introduction of the subject matter with absolutely no in depth material, followed by a very good example. I must say that most of his examples work, but you will have to scratch your head to know why. He doesn't even comment on his own code other than in a superficial way.
I tried to search for a good book on the subject and couldn't after a year of using this one. Being this the only valid source up there, you probably won't have a choice but to get it. It'll get you started, but you will end up having to purchase another book to complete your knowledge.


As reviewed in VSJ magazine (september 2004), 09 Sep 2004
This is a clearly written and interesting account of network programming using both VB.NET and C#. The use of both languages saves the publisher cost and risk of two editions of the same book but puts the reader to the cost of buying redundant pages. Given that C# and VB.NET are so close anyway, and most of the work is done by the common class library, it hardly seems worth the space given to listings in both languages. It's about time Microsoft decided which of its redundant languages was the one to go for ( as if we didn't know already ).
Returning to the book in hand. It is occasionally too low level - if you need to be told how to use Visual Studio then you probably aren't up to learning about network programming. Slowly this tendency to deal with the simple dies away, and we are left with some interesting descriptions of TCP, UDP, HTTP, SMTP, Remoting and web services. It also covers less common protocols such as telephony, MSMQ, IPv6 and low-level packet protocols. The examples are all described in short sections interleaved with text. The discussions are relaxed and informal and the author isn't afraid of upsetting people by pointing out the defects and restrictions of the technologies. This makes the book highly recommended, especially if you're interested in implementing any networking features using the ,NET framework

excellent intro to networking tasks, 27 Aug 2004
I really like this book, as it provides simple examples of how to do networking tasks without huge technical explanations, very useful for developers such as myself in the real world who don't have time for ploughing through extended theory sessions before getting to the end result.

Another reviewer has mentioned the lack of complete source code as a reason for giving this book one star. I say, you were supposed to be giving a book review, not a customer service survey. Anyway I spent about half an hour typing in the TCP/IP server code from the book and it all worked fine (and actually, typing it in, you learn more anyway).

Save your time and money, 11 Aug 2004
Even though there is some good information in this book, there is no complete source code provided. The author gives examples in both C# and VB.Net but will not provide a link to download the source code. After contacting the author, he replied that if he provided source code no one would buy the book!!??. Unless you want to type in a couple hundred pages of incomplete code, save your time and money on this one.

Lots of examples, not enough fundamentals, 02 Oct 2006
Twisted is the Python asynchronous networking framework. It has the reputation of having a fearsome learning curve and I was hoping this book would help me overcome it.

Having now pretty much mastered twisted I can say that this book was less help than it should have been.

It lightly covers the many frameworks available in twisted: servers, clients, web, web servers, web rpc, authentication, mail, nntp, ssh, and processes. There is an example for everything.

The book is missing an explanation of the framework of twisted which is essential to using it. For instance the crucial subject of Deferred items was covered in 4 pages whereas it really deserved at least chapter on its own.

If you want to do something which is covered directly in the book then the book will make it easy. If it isn't covered directly then you'll struggle. I regret to say I got more out of reading twisted's source code than I did from this book.

Excellent guide and reference, 23 Feb 2008
This is a superb introduction to network programming in general and using Python in particular. I'd say it is the modern equivalent of the classic Stephens books on Unix networking. It covers all the common protocols with simple examples and good introductory discussion. So far at least, it has answered every metworking Python query I've had. Its not for complete beginners but for anyone with basic-intermediate Python skills it is highly recommended.

Clear and thorough, 02 Nov 2001
I've read most of the O'Reilly Java books and this has to be one of the best.

Java makes networking easy, and this book shows just how straightforward it is to create networked applications. Furthermore, if you're interested in more complex topics like how ContentHandlers, and Protocol Handlers work ( and how to write your own ) then this book covers that too.

The book can seem a little slow in places as the author explains nearly all the methods available. At the end of it all, however you come away with a thorough understanding.

All the examples work too! ( Well they did for the first edition ).

Learned, readable and packed with information, 17 Jul 2001
One of the best Java books out there. Earlier, I tried the Java network programming book from Manning Publications but it wasn't a patch on this. It covers everything from basic sockets communications to sophisticated client / server applications to SSL to content handlers, not to mention RMI and Internet mail. Heck, even the section which covers simple I/O is one of the best I've read. Simply outstanding.

The basics of java networking? Look no further..., 16 Mar 2001
Perhaps the best thing about this book is the clarity of the authors style. Some authors in this field do their best to obscure their subject, but this book is perfect for an introduction to Java networked applications. It also inspires the reader to see what is possible and encourages them to push back the boundaries.

Great for Java programmers, 26 Feb 2001
This book is great for Java programmers as it doesn't get bogged down on the networking details that are not required when carrying out network programming in Java. A great book!

2nd Edition is quality, 17 Nov 2000
A previous review of an earlier edition complained that the book used an out of date API and failed to go far enough in depth on the subject of networks and the internet.

The API part has been updated and is fine now. The subject matter is still aimed at a strong basic grounding in using Java to connect over the internet and not explaining any internet protocols.

The book is written well, as is the other book I've read by the author, Java I/O. It provides a very good grounding on network programming to people who are experienced in Java but whose limit in the network programming has so far been the URL class.

If you want to do more complex stuff, find an Internet Protocols book (OReilly do one). This book deserves an average of 5 stars.

Very informative, 16 Aug 2008
This book is very informative, and an excellent reference to sockets programming. I refer to it time and time again, and is a welcome addition to my bookshelf.

An Exceptional Resource for Network Programming, 22 Sep 2004
Whether you just want to learn the concepts and practices that allow network programming to work or want to polish your skills in this area, The Definitive Guide to Linux Network Programming will serve you well. I have rarely seen a book about programming that managed to bridge the gap between newcomer and expert so well.

The authors clearly aimed this book for those who are programmers, yet they have made it accessible even to those who are not. Depending on how much you know about network programming, you can start at different points in the book. The authors kindly make suggestions in the introduction as to which sections are most relevant for those who are more expert already.

I was very impressed by the extensive amount of code that is included. In many cases, you will be able to program simply by using the examples in the book. That resource is nicely extended by two lengthy case studies that are intended to help you think your way through the process as well as to integrate the book's subjects. The first case study is for a networked chat application that is written in C++. The second case study looks at the many tricky security questions associated with any networked application.

The book is filled with guidelines and suggestions for when to favor which approaches among the many that Linux offers you. I was especially pleased to find out about many development and debugging tools that make the job easier.

Here's the book's structure:

Part One deals with the basics (networks, protocols, functions, socket programming, sessions and state). Part Two looks at design and architecture (emphasizing design decisions and development processes). Part Three is devoted to security.

Reading the book reminded me of what a great gift Linux is to us all in making it easier for us to use computer networks to communicate with one another. I kept shaking my head as I read the book trying to imagine how much more limited a book would have been that did not use Linux as its subject.

I thought that the discussions of security management were the best part of the book. They were clear, provided a good conceptual backdrop for the potential solutions, and made the solutions as simple as possible.

If you plan to do network programming with Linux, you owe it to yourself to read and apply this superb book!

The real power of UNIX is in communication, 16 Sep 2005
The real power of UNIX or any application for that matter is in interprocess communication. I found early on that to accomplish any large project would require the cooperation of interprocess communication. Now I find that simple administration skills also require knowledge of this interprocess communication.

My first foray into the field was to use semaphores to flag processes to run at the proper time. Later I needed to use pipes for a front-end in communication to SNA. Again I found IPC's could help inform and control processes that were in canned packages and not accessible any other way. The list of useful tools can go on and on. I also had to find the NT equivalent as it became popular.

UNIX is still out there in many forms and if one is to survive in the field an understanding of interprocess communications is imperative.

The Abbreviated Table of Contents:
Part 1. Introduction
1. Introduction
2. POSIX IPC
3. System V IPC
Part 2. Message Passing
4. Pipes and FIFOs
5. Posix Message Queues
6. System V Message Queues
Part 3. Synchronization
7. Mutexes and Condition Variables
8. Read-Write Locks
9. Record Locking
10. POSIX Semaphores
11. System V Semaphores
Part 4. Shared Memory
12. Shared Memory Introduction
13. POSIX Shared Memory
14. System V Shared Memory
Part 5. Remote Procedure Calls
15. Doors
16. Sun RPC
Epilogue
Appendix A. Performance Measurements
Appendix B. Threads Primer
Appendix C. Miscellaneous Source Code
Appendix D. Solutions to Selected Exercises
Bibliography
Index

One final note is that with systems dispersed globally Remote Procedures Calls are taking precedence in Interprocess communications.

This book is NOT about using networks in Unix, 20 Mar 2001
THIS volume is about networks in the sense of communicating processes - running mostly, though not exclusively, on the same machine.

If you want to know about using networks like TCP/IP, you need Volume 1.

If you want to know about using pipes, synchronisation etc. the examples and explanations are clear and well thought out. If you don't need quite the same depth 'Advanced Programming in the Unix Environment' by the same author covers much of the same material

Excellent book on Unix Interprocess communication, 05 Jan 2001
Most of the reviews here seem to imply this book is about sockets and TCP/IP. This book covers Unix IPC and describes the subject in detail. If you want to know all about sockets, you want Unix Network Programming, Networking APIs Sockets and XTI, which is Volume 1

Good but not thorough., 05 Nov 1998
I didn't get exactly what I needed out of this book. It's good as a reference, but I think it leaves out some information on different topics. The IPC section is a little skimpy, but then again it's not a book about IPC per se...some of the stuff the way it was written was not any more understandable than a manpage, and often you buy books hoping that they are worded less cryptically than manpages. On the upside, I got most of what I needed out of it.

As always, Stevens is worth every penny., 03 Nov 1998
Ok, I will admit to be biased. Stevens is a unix programming god. Or mine anyway.

However, I will dare say that again he has improved his previous good work. I felt that he improved and showed a lot more in his second edition of Volume I, and I felt the same way about volume II. While his was HARDLY the first serious book on thread programming that I have read (I also suggest programming with Posix Threads, if it interests you), his was very informative, from both a beginner and advanced standpoint. If you have only one author to buy, this is it.

Poorly written! Incomplete! Some good useful examples! Unfortunately nothing better up there!, 31 Oct 2007
A poorly written book!

It appears as if the author chose his chapter headings and section titles well to make it look at first glance like an in depth material covering a broad range of subjects. However, if you read the book you will notice that each section starts with a poor superficial introduction of the subject matter with absolutely no in depth material, followed by a very good example. I must say that most of his examples work, but you will have to scratch your head to know why. He doesn't even comment on his own code other than in a superficial way.
I tried to search for a good book on the subject and couldn't after a year of using this one. Being this the only valid source up there, you probably won't have a choice but to get it. It'll get you started, but you will end up having to purchase another book to complete your knowledge.


As reviewed in VSJ magazine (september 2004), 09 Sep 2004
This is a clearly written and interesting account of network programming using both VB.NET and C#. The use of both languages saves the publisher cost and risk of two editions of the same book but puts the reader to the cost of buying redundant pages. Given that C# and VB.NET are so close anyway, and most of the work is done by the common class library, it hardly seems worth the space given to listings in both languages. It's about time Microsoft decided which of its redundant languages was the one to go for ( as if we didn't know already ).
Returning to the book in hand. It is occasionally too low level - if you need to be told how to use Visual Studio then you probably aren't up to learning about network programming. Slowly this tendency to deal with the simple dies away, and we are left with some interesting descriptions of TCP, UDP, HTTP, SMTP, Remoting and web services. It also covers less common protocols such as telephony, MSMQ, IPv6 and low-level packet protocols. The examples are all described in short sections interleaved with text. The discussions are relaxed and informal and the author isn't afraid of upsetting people by pointing out the defects and restrictions of the technologies. This makes the book highly recommended, especially if you're interested in implementing any networking features using the ,NET framework

excellent intro to networking tasks, 27 Aug 2004
I really like this book, as it provides simple examples of how to do networking tasks without huge technical explanations, very useful for developers such as myself in the real world who don't have time for ploughing through extended theory sessions before getting to the end result.

Another reviewer has mentioned the lack of complete source code as a reason for giving this book one star. I say, you were supposed to be giving a book review, not a customer service survey. Anyway I spent about half an hour typing in the TCP/IP server code from the book and it all worked fine (and actually, typing it in, you learn more anyway).

Save your time and money, 11 Aug 2004
Even though there is some good information in this book, there is no complete source code provided. The author gives examples in both C# and VB.Net but will not provide a link to download the source code. After contacting the author, he replied that if he provided source code no one would buy the book!!??. Unless you want to type in a couple hundred pages of incomplete code, save your time and money on this one.

Lots of examples, not enough fundamentals, 02 Oct 2006
Twisted is the Python asynchronous networking framework. It has the reputation of having a fearsome learning curve and I was hoping this book would help me overcome it.

Having now pretty much mastered twisted I can say that this book was less help than it should have been.

It lightly covers the many frameworks available in twisted: servers, clients, web, web servers, web rpc, authentication, mail, nntp, ssh, and processes. There is an example for everything.

The book is missing an explanation of the framework of twisted which is essential to using it. For instance the crucial subject of Deferred items was covered in 4 pages whereas it really deserved at least chapter on its own.

If you want to do something which is covered directly in the book then the book will make it easy. If it isn't covered directly then you'll struggle. I regret to say I got more out of reading twisted's source code than I did from this book.

Excellent guide and reference, 23 Feb 2008
This is a superb introduction to network programming in general and using Python in particular. I'd say it is the modern equivalent of the classic Stephens books on Unix networking. It covers all the common protocols with simple examples and good introductory discussion. So far at least, it has answered every metworking Python query I've had. Its not for complete beginners but for anyone with basic-intermediate Python skills it is highly recommended.

Not sure who this book is aimed at, 30 Jan 2008
The blurb for this book calls it authoritative. And it is authoritative in the sense that it is written by the people behind ACE. But it is not authoritative in the sense that it isn't a complete reference.

As somebody who has written native code for handling Sockets, process management, threading etc on various platforms, then over time integrated OO and patterns to make it easier to use (including across platforms), and slowly worked my way towards what I consider a definitive way of doing things, I find reading this book interesting in that it's like a tick list to which I can go "yeap, I found that too" with just the odd "ooh, actually I would do that differently in this specific situation, but for the general case yes that's how I do it too". So, for me this book is interesting now, but if I was new to ACE (I'm not) or new to the underlying platform APIs I am not so sure how interesting I would find it. It gives more of a taster of what ACE can do than providing a complete tutorial. It gives more of a justification of why ACE does things the way it does rather than provide a complete reference. So, interesting for me now, but I'm really not sure who the book is aimed at. It could be used as one step of a tutorial, giving familiarity of what ACE can do, if not enough detail to really do serious stuff. It could be used to persuade people that it's usually better to use ACE than invest time and money re-inventing the wheel... Otherwise, I just don't know...

Is ACE worth using? Most of the time, yes. If you need a book about ACE then this is probably the place to start, but online is the place to find the detailed information that you will need when using it.

Good intro to the lower layers of ACE, 31 Dec 2001
This book is written by ACE's original developer, so it should be a pretty comprehensive and accurate description of the codebase - and it certainly is.

Unfortunately, the book itself adds little to the wealth of material available on the ACE website, so it's not particularly good value for money.

There are two themes to the book: patterns & portability, and the ACE APIs. The sections covering the first are pretty good and the concepts were leading edge a few years ago but now seem to be part of just about every decent C++ book. The ACE API description is convenient but, as I said earlier, can be found online.

The book covers only the lower layers of ACE, which are the easier bits to understand and use - coverage of the upper layers would be much more interesting.

Clear and thorough, 02 Nov 2001
I've read most of the O'Reilly Java books and this has to be one of the best.

Java makes networking easy, and this book shows just how straightforward it is to create networked applications. Furthermore, if you're interested in more complex topics like how ContentHandlers, and Protocol Handlers work ( and how to write your own ) then this book covers that too.

The book can seem a little slow in places as the author explains nearly all the methods available. At the end of it all, however you come away with a thorough understanding.

All the examples work too! ( Well they did for the first edition ).

Learned, readable and packed with information, 17 Jul 2001
One of the best Java books out there. Earlier, I tried the Java network programming book from Manning Publications but it wasn't a patch on this. It covers everything from basic sockets communications to sophisticated client / server applications to SSL to content handlers, not to mention RMI and Internet mail. Heck, even the section which covers simple I/O is one of the best I've read. Simply outstanding.

The basics of java networking? Look no further..., 16 Mar 2001
Perhaps the best thing about this book is the clarity of the authors style. Some authors in this field do their best to obscure their subject, but this book is perfect for an introduction to Java networked applications. It also inspires the reader to see what is possible and encourages them to push back the boundaries.

Great for Java programmers, 26 Feb 2001
This book is great for Java programmers as it doesn't get bogged down on the networking details that are not required when carrying out network programming in Java. A great book!

2nd Edition is quality, 17 Nov 2000
A previous review of an earlier edition complained that the book used an out of date API and failed to go far enough in depth on the subject of networks and the internet.

The API part has been updated and is fine now. The subject matter is still aimed at a strong basic grounding in using Java to connect over the internet and not explaining any internet protocols.

The book is written well, as is the other book I've read by the author, Java I/O. It provides a very good grounding on network programming to people who are experienced in Java but whose limit in the network programming has so far been the URL class.

If you want to do more complex stuff, find an Internet Protocols book (OReilly do one). This book deserves an average of 5 stars.

Very informative, 16 Aug 2008
This book is very informative, and an excellent reference to sockets programming. I refer to it time and time again, and is a welcome addition to my bookshelf.

An Exceptional Resource for Network Programming, 22 Sep 2004
Whether you just want to learn the concepts and practices that allow network programming to work or want to polish your skills in this area, The Definitive Guide to Linux Network Programming will serve you well. I have rarely seen a book about programming that managed to bridge the gap between newcomer and expert so well.

The authors clearly aimed this book for those who are programmers, yet they have made it accessible even to those who are not. Depending on how much you know about network programming, you can start at different points in the book. The authors kindly make suggestions in the introduction as to which sections are most relevant for those who are more expert already.

I was very impressed by the extensive amount of code that is included. In many cases, you will be able to program simply by using the examples in the book. That resource is nicely extended by two lengthy case studies that are intended to help you think your way through the process as well as to integrate the book's subjects. The first case study is for a networked chat application that is written in C++. The second case study looks at the many tricky security questions associated with any networked application.

The book is filled with guidelines and suggestions for when to favor which approaches among the many that Linux offers you. I was especially pleased to find out about many development and debugging tools that make the job easier.

Here's the book's structure:

Part One deals with the basics (networks, protocols, functions, socket programming, sessions and state). Part Two looks at design and architecture (emphasizing design decisions and development processes). Part Three is devoted to security.

Reading the book reminded me of what a great gift Linux is to us all in making it easier for us to use computer networks to communicate with one another. I kept shaking my head as I read the book trying to imagine how much more limited a book would have been that did not use Linux as its subject.

I thought that the discussions of security management were the best part of the book. They were clear, provided a good conceptual backdrop for the potential solutions, and made the solutions as simple as possible.

If you plan to do network programming with Linux, you owe it to yourself to read and apply this superb book!

The real power of UNIX is in communication, 16 Sep 2005
The real power of UNIX or any application for that matter is in interprocess communication. I found early on that to accomplish any large project would require the cooperation of interprocess communication. Now I find that simple administration skills also require knowledge of this interprocess communication.

My first foray into the field was to use semaphores to flag processes to run at the proper time. Later I needed to use pipes for a front-end in communication to SNA. Again I found IPC's could help inform and control processes that were in canned packages and not accessible any other way. The list of useful tools can go on and on. I also had to find the NT equivalent as it became popular.

UNIX is still out there in many forms and if one is to survive in the field an understanding of interprocess communications is imperative.

The Abbreviated Table of Contents:
Part 1. Introduction
1. Introduction
2. POSIX IPC
3. System V IPC
Part 2. Message Passing
4. Pipes and FIFOs
5. Posix Message Queues
6. System V Message Queues
Part 3. Synchronization
7. Mutexes and Condition Variables
8. Read-Write Locks
9. Record Locking
10. POSIX Semaphores
11. System V Semaphores
Part 4. Shared Memory
12. Shared Memory Introduction
13. POSIX Shared Memory
14. System V Shared Memory
Part 5. Remote Procedure Calls
15. Doors
16. Sun RPC
Epilogue
Appendix A. Performance Measurements
Appendix B. Threads Primer
Appendix C. Miscellaneous Source Code
Appendix D. Solutions to Selected Exercises
Bibliography
Index

One final note is that with systems dispersed globally Remote Procedures Calls are taking precedence in Interprocess communications.

This book is NOT about using networks in Unix, 20 Mar 2001
THIS volume is about networks in the sense of