Linux Kernel Networking takes you on a guided in-depth tour of the current Linux networking implementation and the theory behind it. Linux kernel networking is a complex topic, so the book won't burden you with topics not directly related to networking. This book will also not overload you with cumbersome line-by-line code walkthroughs not directly related to what you're searching for; you'll find just what you need, with in-depth explanations in each chapter and a quick reference at the end of each chapter.

Linux Kernel Networking is the only up-to-date reference guide to understanding how networking is implemented, and it will be indispensable in years to come since so many devices now use Linux or operating systems based on Linux, like Android, and since Linux is so prevalent in the data center arena, including Linux-based virtualization technologies like Xen and KVM.

What you’ll learn

•Kernel networking basics, including socket buffers
•How key protocols like ARP, Neighbour Discovery and ICMP are implemented
•In-depth looks at both IPv4 and IPv6
•Everything you need to know about Linux routing
•How netfilter and IPsec are implemented
•Linux wireless networking
•Additional topics like Network Namespaces, NFC, IEEE 802.15.4, Bluetooth, InfiniBand and more

Who this book is for

Software developers and architects, project managers, CTOs, network admins and architects, network security professionals, computer science researchers, and Linux kernel hackers. A basic knowledge of C and networking is required; basic knowledge of the Linux kernel is helpful but not mandatory.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. Netlink Sockets

3. ICMP: Internet Control Message Protocol

4. IPv4

5. The IPv4 Routing Subsystem

6. Advanced Routing

7. Linux Neighboring Subsystem

8. IPv6

9. Netfilter

10. IPsec

11. Layer 4 Protocols

12. Wireless in Linux

13. InfiniBand

14. Advanced Topics

Appendix A: Linux API

Appendix B: Network Administration

Appendix C: Glossary