The ability to construct reliable network software is a vital skill for many of today's programmers and at the same time, Java's comprehensive libraries of readily-accessible network programming features ensure that Java remains at the forefront of network software development.

The 1st edition of this book provided a streamlined work that could serve as the core text on an undergraduate module and as the quick, clear, no-nonsense guide required by a IT professional. Notable amongst its features were its many code examples, screenshots and exercises. This 2nd edition retains these features and in addition includes:

- Language changes throughout the examples, largely reflecting the significant changes introduced by J2SE 5.0

- Comprehensive update of support software, particularly that used for Web applications

- New material, such as non-blocking servers and the use of the DataSource interface and Data Access Objects (DAOs) for connecting to remote databases