Bookshelf
Networking
Enterprise Network Testing
by Andy Sholomon, Tom KunathA convenient collection of practical advice, case studies, and example test cases for evaluating enterprise network equipment and designs.
Ethernet: The Definitive Guide
by Charles SpurgeonProvides a tremendously detailed explanation of the history and low-level operation of Ethernet and IEEE 802.3. It also provides thorough discussion of the physical characteristics and limitations of the medium.
Network Maintenance and Troubleshooting Guide (2nd Ed.)
by Neal AllenAs you would expect from a book produced by Fluke Networks, Fluke hardware and software are featured throughout. But don't let that put you off: this book is packed with valuable testing and troubleshooting methodologies.
Network Warrior
by Gary DonahueThe areas of knowledge covered by this book can best be described as "CCNA for the real world." It is targeted toward novice or part-time network administrators seeking to apply newly-learned theory to practice. Highly recommended for anyone new to the field.
Practical Packet Analysis
by Chris SandersAn excellent introductory book to Wireshark and packet analysis fundamentals, arranged in an easily digestible format with an emphasis on hands-on learning through sample packet captures.
Practice of System and Network Administration, The (2nd Ed.)
by Thomas Limoncelli, Christina Hogan, Strata ChalupAt over a thousand pages in length, this book is meant to (and does) serve as an excellent all-encompassing reference for network and system administrators. TPSNA is an invaluable collection of wisdom and advice; it's like having your own personal mentor.
Routing TCP/IP, Vol. 1 (2nd Ed.)
by Jeff Doyle, Jennifer CarrollConsidered by many to be the bible of interior routing protocols (RIP, EIGRP, OSPF, and IS-IS) on Cisco IOS. It covers both IPv4 and IPv6 routing as well as route redistribution tools. Doyle provides very thorough examples which cover virtually every aspect of each topic.
Routing TCP/IP, Vol. 2
by Jeff Doyle, Jennifer CarrollExtends the first volume to cover BGP, NAT, and multicast routing. Unfortunately, a significant amount of the content (particularly the chapter on EGP) is outdated.
Security
Hacking: The Art of Exploitation (2nd Ed.)
by Jon EricksonAn excellent security book which shows how compromises happen by use of example. Includes lots of do-it-yourself code. Some sections require working knowledge of assembly but the majority is easily interpreted.
IPv6 Security
by Scott Hogg, Eric VynckeA definitive compilation of security concerns to be aware of when implementing IPv6. The writing is a bit dry, but thorough.
Security Warrior
by Cyrus Peikari, Anton ChuvakinProvides a broad introduction to many aspects of IT security with a focus on reverse engineering. This is an excellent book for anyone who is considering getting into security but would like to test the waters first.
Education
A Writer's Reference
by Diana HackerThis is truly a reference book for writers: Its contents are organized in tabbed sections and very easily digested. Although a few sections (MLA and APA) are geared toward academia, most of it is helpful for writing in general.
How to be a Successful Technical Trainer
by Terrance Keys, Andrew ZeffAlthough designed to cover CompTIA's CTT+ certification, this book proved quite helpful as I began my teaching career. The book covers all aspects of presentation, from improving your communication skills to arranging furniture in the classroom.
On Writing Well
by William ZinsserThis is the perfect book for any author looking to sharpen his or her nonfiction writing skills. Unlike many writing books, Zinsser's is well-organized, to the point, and a delight to read.