HackNotes Network Security Portable Reference

HackNotes Network Security Portable Reference. By Michael Horton and Clinton Mugge; published by McGraw-Hill Osborne Media, 877/833-5524 (phone), www.osborne.com (Web); 288 pages; $29.99.

It is unfortunate that generalist security managers, even those with responsibilities for IT security, often shy away from books relating to network security. That would be a significant loss in the case of this book. As recent attacks from the Netsky virus to the Blaster worm demonstrate, loss of business from breaches of information systems can cause significantly more damage and downtime than a physical attack. This book provides timely insight into hacking, common threats and vulnerabilities, and defense strategies.

The great strength of this work is the balance of its rigorous content and accessible presentation. Dividing the book into three parts allows readers to choose their level of detail. The first section provides easily understandable network principles and methodologies. A more detailed section, on hacking techniques and defenses, follows. At the most detailed level, readers can probe specialist areas such as wireless networks and Web application security.

Technical issues are neatly compiled within a "reference center." This feature allows practitioners to use the book as a quick reference while segregating this in-depth material from the general information that will be of more interest to the casual reader. Other useful formatting methods include the use of page tabs, an index, and informative resources.

It is rare to find a publication that simultaneously addresses the needs of IT professionals at all levels and security managers in general. Although this book cannot hope to provide all the answers, it relieves readers of having to leaf through a vast exposition.

Reviewer: Crawford Robinson is detective chief inspector of the West Midlands Police in Coventry, United Kingdom. He is a member of ASIS International.