TCP/IP Protocol Book recommendation

Question

I'm looking for a language-agnostic and preferably OS-agnostic book covering the TCP/IP protocol. I'd like to stay away from Cisco technology-centric books or sys-admin type books, and prefer books covering the protocol in detail.

In particular I'm looking for a book with coverage on the following topics:

• IPv6
• Multicasting

I'm considering the infamous Steven's Book, but I was wondering if anyone had any other suggestions. Thanks for your input.

Answer 1

Look here http://www.tcpipguide.com/free/t_toc.htm

Answer 2

Get the Stevens books anyway. I haven't seen books of comparable quality on the subject. Every decent network programmer I've ever met had them on the bookshelf. At least these two are a must and are actually fun to read:

• TCP/IP Illustrated, Volume 1: The Protocols - gives thorough understanding of TCP/IP suite of protocols.
• UNIX Network Programming, Volume 1. Get the 3rd edition - it covers IPv6 and SCTP.

Multicasting is covered in both in good detail.

Answer 3

This is a good read:

• Amazon: TCP/IP JumpStart-Internet Protocol Basics
• Free PDF: TCP/IP JumpStart-Internet Protocol Basics