8 Network Routing Books That Will Sharpen Your Skills

Discover top Network Routing books authored by leading experts like Wendell Odom, Jeff Doyle, and Scott Empson, trusted by professionals worldwide.

Updated on June 28, 2025
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What if you could tap into decades of networking wisdom distilled into just a handful of books? Network routing, the backbone of how data moves across the globe, demands both technical precision and practical know-how. As networks grow more complex, understanding routing protocols and configurations is no longer optional—it's essential. Whether you're eyeing certification or aiming to deepen your craft, the right book can transform confusion into clarity.

These books come from authors who have lived and breathed network routing. Wendell Odom, a CCIE Emeritus, has shaped Cisco certification materials for years, making his guides a staple for those preparing for CCNA exams. Jeff Doyle, with his global experience designing complex networks, offers deep dives into exterior routing protocols that power the internet’s backbone. Scott Empson brings practical command knowledge to your fingertips, perfect for hands-on professionals.

While these expert-curated books provide proven frameworks and practical insights, your unique background and goals might call for a tailored approach. Consider creating a personalized Network Routing book that builds on these foundations, customized to your experience level, focus areas, and learning objectives. It’s a smart way to bridge expert knowledge with your specific needs.

Best for mastering exterior routing protocols
Jeff Doyle, a CCIE with extensive global experience and vice president of research at Fishtech Labs, authored this book to share his deep knowledge of exterior routing protocols and advanced IP routing. His guidance stems from work designing large-scale networks and advising on IPv6 deployment, making this a technically rich resource for network professionals seeking to deepen their expertise.
Routing TCP/IP: CCIE Professional Development, Volume 2 book cover

by Jennifer Carroll, Jeff Doyle··You?

2016·1152 pages·Network Routing, TCP-IP, TCP, BGP, Multicast

When Jeff Doyle, a seasoned CCIE and vice president of research at Fishtech Labs, wrote this volume, he brought decades of hands-on expertise from designing complex networks across six continents. The book delves deeply into Cisco exterior routing protocols like BGP and multicast, unpacking how to configure, troubleshoot, and optimize these systems for scalability and performance. You’ll gain clarity on path selection, routing policies, and IPv6 transitions, supported by real-world case studies and exercises that mirror challenges faced by large enterprises. This isn’t a surface-level overview—it’s a technical guide built for professionals who need to master the nuances behind exterior routing in modern networks.

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Wendell Odom, CCIE No. 1624 (Emeritus) and seasoned network engineer since 1981, brings unparalleled expertise to this guide. His decades of experience writing Cisco certification materials shine through in this comprehensive resource designed to prepare you thoroughly for the CCNA ICND2 exam. With a history of authoring all editions of Cisco Press’s CCNA and CCENT guides and contributions to the Pearson Network Simulator, Odom’s work here is both authoritative and practical, making it a trusted companion on your certification journey.

Wendell Odom, with his extensive background as a CCIE and decades in networking, crafted this guide to address the exact challenges faced by those preparing for Cisco's CCNA ICND2 200-105 exam. You’ll find a structured approach to mastering key routing and switching topics, including quizzes that help pinpoint your weak spots and troubleshooting sections that simulate real network scenarios. The inclusion of practical tools like the Network Simulator Lite and detailed exam preparation tasks means you’re not just memorizing facts but developing hands-on skills critical for certification and professional work. If you’re aiming to deepen your understanding of Cisco networking and pass the ICND2 exam, this guide offers the focused preparation you need.

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Best for custom learning paths
This AI-created book on network routing is crafted based on your experience level and specific interests in routing protocols and network design. By sharing your background and goals, you receive a tailored guide that focuses on the topics most relevant to your learning journey. The customization helps you focus on mastering complex protocols and design principles without sifting through unrelated material, making your study more efficient and directly applicable.
2025·50-300 pages·Network Routing, Routing Protocols, Network Design, Protocol Behavior, OSPF

This tailored book explores the intricate world of network routing with a focus on routing protocols and network design, crafted specifically to match your background and interests. It examines core routing concepts, various protocols like OSPF, BGP, and EIGRP, and dives into network topology and design principles to provide a clear, personalized learning path. By concentrating on your specific goals, the book reveals the nuances of protocol behavior and design choices, helping you bridge the gap between theory and practical application. This personalized approach ensures that you gain relevant knowledge efficiently and confidently navigate complex routing environments.

Tailored Guide
Protocol Mastery
1,000+ Happy Readers
Wendell Odom, CCIE No. 1624 (Emeritus), brings decades of networking expertise to this guide, having worked as an engineer, consultant, instructor, and author of numerous Cisco certification resources. His extensive background in developing certification study tools and involvement with the Pearson Network Simulator uniquely position him to create a resource finely tuned to the needs of CCNA candidates. This book reflects his commitment to blending theory with practical application to help you build solid networking skills and succeed in Cisco certification exams.

After analyzing the evolving demands of Cisco certification, Wendell Odom crafted this guide to address both conceptual understanding and hands-on mastery for CCNA candidates. The book dives deep into networking fundamentals, IPv4 and IPv6 protocols, Ethernet LANs, routing protocols like EIGRP, and security essentials, pairing theory with practical labs and video training. You’ll find targeted quizzes, troubleshooting scenarios, and a network simulator to sharpen real-world skills essential for passing CCNA exams. If you’re preparing for Cisco certifications or seeking a thorough grounding in enterprise networking, this guide offers structured, exam-focused insight that balances detail without overwhelming.

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Best for practical routing and switching skills
Todd Lammle, Cisco certified in nearly every category, draws on three decades of experience with companies like Xerox, Hughes Aircraft, and Cisco itself to deliver an authoritative guide for aspiring network professionals. His deep practical knowledge informs this study guide, designed to prepare you thoroughly for CCNA exams with detailed explanations, labs, and practice tests. His prolific writing career and training business underline his commitment to making Cisco networking concepts accessible and actionable.

Todd Lammle leverages his extensive career working with major firms like Xerox and Cisco to demystify complex network routing concepts in this study guide. You’ll learn detailed protocols, routing and switching techniques, and troubleshooting strategies, all aligned with Cisco's CCNA certification goals. The book offers hands-on labs and practice exams, making it a practical tool for mastering not just theory but real-world application. If you’re preparing for Cisco’s exams or seeking a solid foundation in routing and switching, this guide matches depth with accessibility, though it’s best suited for those serious about certification rather than casual learners.

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Patrick Gargano has been a Cisco Networking Academy Instructor since 2000 and a Certified Cisco Systems Instructor since 2005, bringing decades of teaching experience to this book. Currently a Content Development Engineer at Skyline ATS, he focuses on CCNP Enterprise course development for Learning@Cisco. His extensive background in instructing and developing Cisco certification materials, along with multiple Cisco certifications himself, uniquely positions him to deliver a command guide that’s both authoritative and user-friendly for networking professionals pursuing advanced Cisco certifications.
2020·416 pages·Network Routing, Cisco, Cisco Networking Equipment, Routing Protocols, EIGRP

After years instructing Cisco networking courses and developing certification training, Patrick Gargano crafted this guide to make complex command references more accessible. You’ll find all ENCOR (350-401) and ENARSI (300-410) Cisco IOS commands organized logically, with practical examples and configuration samples that connect theory to application. This compact resource is designed for those preparing for CCNP or CCIE certifications, offering quick recall aids and a personalized journal section for your notes. If you’re deep into mastering Cisco enterprise routing and want a handy command reference, this book meets that need without fluff or distractions.

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Best for rapid skill advancement
This AI-created book on network routing is crafted based on your specific background and skill level. By sharing your current experience and which routing topics you want to focus on, the book is tailored to guide you through daily, practical actions. This focused approach helps you tackle complex routing concepts efficiently, making your learning both relevant and effective. It’s designed to meet your specific goals and accelerate your growth in network routing.
2025·50-300 pages·Network Routing, Routing Protocols, Configuration Techniques, Troubleshooting, Routing Optimization

This personalized AI-created book on network routing offers a unique learning journey tailored specifically to your background and goals. It explores step-by-step actions designed to improve your routing skills rapidly, with a focus on practical, daily tasks that build understanding and confidence. The content covers essential routing protocols, configuration techniques, and troubleshooting methods, carefully selected to match your interests and current expertise. By addressing your specific needs, this book provides a clear, focused pathway through complex routing concepts, making skill enhancement efficient and engaging. Embrace a tailored approach that bridges expert knowledge with your personal learning objectives to accelerate your mastery.

Tailored Guide
Routing Skill Acceleration
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for quick Cisco command reference
Scott Empson brings a rare combination of academic leadership and hands-on teaching experience to this guide, chairing a degree program in Applied Information Systems Technology while holding multiple industry certifications. His expertise in Cisco routing and switching education shines through, making this portable command guide a practical tool for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of Cisco IOS commands and prepare effectively for CCNA certification exams.
2016·364 pages·Cisco, Network Routing, Networking, Routing, LAN Switching

Scott Empson’s extensive background in applied information systems and his role as chair at a leading Canadian institute inform this precise command guide for CCNA Routing and Switching certification. You’ll find a concise yet thorough collection of Cisco IOS commands and configurations, organized by topics like subnetting, VLANs, OSPF, and security protocols, designed to fit in your pocket and serve as a swift reference during hands-on work. The guide’s practical examples, such as configuring EtherChannel or managing DHCP, sharpen your command-line skills and clarify complex concepts. If you’re preparing for CCNA exams or need a reliable on-the-job resource, this book offers focused, accessible content without unnecessary filler.

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Best for solid Cisco certification foundation
Glen E. Clarke, a multi-certified technical trainer and owner of DC Advanced Technology Training, brings extensive expertise to this guide. Having authored multiple certification study guides for McGraw Hill, his deep understanding of Cisco technologies and hands-on training experience shaped this book to thoroughly prepare you for Cisco's CCT and CCNA exams while serving as a reliable on-the-job reference.

Unlike many exam guides that skim the surface, this book dives deep into Cisco's CCT and CCNA certifications with clarity and precision. Glen E Clarke and Richard Deal, both seasoned Cisco networking professionals, crafted a resource that not only prepares you for exam questions but also strengthens your practical skills through lab exercises and realistic practice tests. You'll master everything from subnetting and the OSI model to device management, routing protocols, and security fundamentals, making it a handy reference beyond test day. If you're aiming to build solid networking expertise aligned with Cisco standards, this guide offers a focused path, though those seeking a broader networking theory might look elsewhere.

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Best for advanced TCP/IP routing insights
Jeff Doyle is a renowned networking expert and author, known for his contributions to the field of TCP/IP and routing protocols. With extensive experience in network design and implementation, he has authored several influential books widely used for CCIE preparation. His work is recognized for its clarity and depth, making complex topics accessible to readers seeking to enhance their network routing skills.
177 pages·Network Routing, Network Router, BGP, Multicast Routing, MPLS

Drawing from his extensive experience in network design and routing protocol implementation, Jeff Doyle offers a focused exploration of advanced TCP/IP routing concepts tailored for networking professionals aiming to deepen their technical expertise. This volume delves into complex topics such as BGP, multicast routing, and MPLS, providing detailed explanations and practical insights that go beyond introductory material. You’ll find clear discussions on protocol behavior and configuration nuances that help demystify challenging areas often encountered in high-level network environments. While the book suits those preparing for CCIE-level certification or working with large-scale enterprise networks, its precise approach may be demanding for newcomers without foundational routing knowledge.

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Conclusion

Across these eight books, three themes stand out: rigorous certification preparation, hands-on command mastery, and advanced protocol understanding. If you’re just starting your Cisco journey, Wendell Odom’s guides offer a structured path to build confidence and knowledge. For those ready to tackle complex routing scenarios, Jeff Doyle’s volumes provide the depth and nuance required to excel. Meanwhile, Scott Empson’s portable command guide fits perfectly for quick reference during practical work.

Facing a specific challenge like mastering BGP or preparing for CCNP? Combine books focused on those topics to reinforce theory with practice. Alternatively, you can create a personalized Network Routing book to bridge the gap between general principles and your unique situation.

These books can help you accelerate your learning journey, equipping you with knowledge and skills that are respected across the networking community. The right resource is out there—pick one that fits your goals and start routing your way to success.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with the CCNA Routing and Switching 200-125 Official Cert Guide Library by Wendell Odom. It balances foundational theory with practical labs, perfect for building a strong base before tackling advanced topics.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Network Routing?

Not at all. Several, like Odom's CCNA guides and the CCT/CCNA All-in-One Exam Guide, are designed for beginners aiming for certifications, providing step-by-step learning suited for newcomers.

What's the best order to read these books?

Begin with beginner-focused CCNA guides for core concepts, then move to command guides for practical skills, and finally explore advanced routing texts like Jeff Doyle's Routing TCP/IP volumes for deeper expertise.

Should I start with the newest book or a classic?

Prioritize relevance over age. While newer editions like the CCNP and CCIE Portable Command Guide reflect recent Cisco updates, classics like Routing TCP/IP remain invaluable for their depth and clarity.

Do these books assume I already have experience in Network Routing?

Some, especially the advanced Routing TCP/IP volumes, expect prior knowledge. However, many books on this list cater to beginners and intermediate learners, making them accessible regardless of experience.

Can I get content tailored to my specific Network Routing goals?

Yes! While these authoritative books cover broad expertise, you can create a personalized Network Routing book that complements these insights with targeted strategies suited to your skills and objectives.

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