Networking
Networking
Personal notes on learning computer networking from first principles to expert NetOps, with labs built as code in Containerlab using open-source and free network images only.
Note
This book is vendor-agnostic. CLIs differ; models do not. Start with the Syllabus pages under Front Matter—several outlines are included so you can choose a spine. Diagrams use transparent SVGs (currentColor) so they stay readable in light and dark Quarto themes.
What “done” looks like
- Design multi-site L2/L3 networks with clear underlay vs overlay roles
- Implement them in Containerlab with free images (e.g. FRR, Linux, SR Linux, SONiC, VyOS)
- Prove behavior with tables, neighbors, and packet captures—not hope
- Break links and policies on purpose; restore and document
- Automate lab lifecycle and grow into production-shaped NetOps habits
Core habits
| Habit | Why |
|---|---|
| Models first | Planes, encapsulation, state machines transfer forever |
| Lab-as-code | Reproducible .clab.yml topologies in git |
| Predict → observe → fix → harden | How experts actually learn |
| Open stack | No paid image required on the main path |
How to read the syllabi
| Page | Role |
|---|---|
| Syllabus | Working outline A (recommended starting spine) |
| Syllabus 1–7 | Alternate ways to organize the same destination |
| Syllabus options | Comparison table |
Lab ground rules
- Prefer free/open node kinds
- Every serious lab: topology file + addressing plan + failure scenario
- Capture evidence (commands + pcap when useful)
- Plan CPU/RAM for node scale
Formats
HTML, PDF, and EPUB via the monorepo portal when built.