8 New Network Administration Books Reshaping 2025

Explore authoritative Network Administration books by Todd Lammle, Jon Buhagiar, and other experts bringing fresh insights in 2025

Updated on June 28, 2025
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The Network Administration landscape changed dramatically in 2024, with fresh technologies and security challenges reshaping how networks are designed, managed, and protected. Staying ahead means mastering evolving protocols, automation techniques, and platform-specific tools that have become essential in 2025. Whether you're preparing for certifications or managing complex infrastructures, understanding these shifts is critical.

These new books, authored by seasoned professionals like Todd Lammle and Jon Buhagiar, offer deep dives into current network certification requirements, Windows Active Directory, PowerShell automation, and Cisco IOS upgrades. Their practical experience and focus on real-world applications ensure you’re learning from the forefront of industry knowledge.

While these books provide valuable insights, readers seeking content tailored exactly to their background and goals might consider creating a personalized Network Administration book that builds on these emerging trends, providing a customized learning path for 2025.

Best for certification exam preparation
Todd Lammle, a seasoned network engineer with decades of hands-on experience and over 130 published books, including the highly regarded CCNA study guides, offers unmatched expertise in this field. His leadership at GlobalNet System Solutions and deep familiarity with large-scale networks inform the book’s practical insights. This latest edition reflects his commitment to keeping network professionals up to date with evolving standards, making it a reliable resource for certification candidates and new network administrators alike.
CompTIA Network+ Study Guide: Exam N10-009 (Sybex Study Guide) book cover

by Todd Lammle, Jon Buhagiar··You?

Todd Lammle and Jon Buhagiar bring a wealth of experience to this updated guide, tailored for the latest CompTIA Network+ Exam N10-009. You’ll find detailed explanations of networking concepts, implementation tactics, operations, security measures, and troubleshooting techniques, all aligned with current industry requirements. The book’s structure mirrors the exam domains, helping you focus on mastering essential skills like configuring network devices, understanding protocols, and securing networks against emerging threats. Whether you're preparing for certification or stepping into your first network administration role, this guide offers a clear pathway to practical competence without unnecessary jargon or fluff.

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Best for Windows network admins
Rob Botwright’s Active Directory: Network Management Best Practices For System Administrators stands out for its thorough approach to one of the most critical components in Windows network environments. The book bundle covers everything from introductory concepts to advanced security measures and troubleshooting techniques, making it a valuable resource for IT professionals aiming to secure and optimize their networks effectively. It addresses the full lifecycle of Active Directory management, offering insights that benefit both newcomers and seasoned administrators seeking to refine their skills and safeguard organizational infrastructure.
2024·302 pages·Network Administration, Active Directory, Security, Group Policy, Troubleshooting

Rob Botwright draws from extensive experience in Windows network environments to deliver a focused examination of Active Directory management. This book bundle breaks down key areas such as foundational concepts, advanced group policy configurations, security protocols, and troubleshooting methods. You’ll gain practical insights into designing multi-domain architectures and implementing access controls to protect organizational assets. The chapters on optimization and audit policies offer tools to maintain system resilience. If you work with Windows networks and want to deepen your command of Active Directory’s nuances, this book provides a structured path from beginner to advanced understanding without unnecessary complexity.

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Best for custom learning paths
This AI-created book on network administration is crafted based on your background, skill level, and the new developments you want to explore in 2025. You share your interests and goals, and the book focuses precisely on those emerging breakthroughs and tools that matter most to you. This personalized approach makes it easier to grasp complex innovations and apply fresh knowledge in ways that fit your unique experience and objectives.
2025·50-300 pages·Network Administration, Emerging Technologies, Automation Tools, Security Innovations, Cloud Integration

This AI-created book explores the latest developments transforming network administration in 2025, tailored to your unique background and goals. It covers emerging technologies, innovative tools, and novel management approaches shaping modern networks, focusing on the areas you’re most interested in. By addressing your specific objectives, this tailored guide reveals how recent discoveries influence network design, security, automation, and troubleshooting, helping you stay ahead in a rapidly evolving field. The book presents a deep dive into cutting-edge insights and practical knowledge that align with your experience, making complex advancements accessible and relevant to your professional journey.

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Best for network automation enthusiasts
Powershell for Networking offers a focused approach to integrating scripting into day-to-day network management, helping you automate routine tasks and troubleshoot more efficiently. This guide covers everything from basic scripting concepts to advanced configuration and cloud integration, providing a clear pathway to modernize network administration workflows. Whether your environment includes traditional hardware or hybrid cloud platforms like Azure, this book equips you with the tools to reduce downtime and improve reliability through automation.
2024·158 pages·Network Administration, PowerShell, Configuration Automation, Troubleshooting, Cloud Management

When Colton Stewart wrote this guide, he focused on bridging the gap between PowerShell scripting and practical network management challenges. You’ll find detailed instruction on automating network configurations, deploying changes instantly, and diagnosing issues with command-line tools tailored for switches, routers, and firewalls. The book walks you through scripting fundamentals before advancing to complex Desired State Configuration setups, making it a valuable tool if you want to reduce manual work and speed up troubleshooting. Whether you’re managing on-premises infrastructure or hybrid cloud environments like Azure, this book offers clear examples to help you master automation in real network scenarios.

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Best for Palo Alto firewall admins
What makes this guide unique is its focus on the latest Palo Alto Networks security admin certification, blending deep technical content with practice labs and exam questions. The author’s background as a solution architect with nearly two decades of experience shapes a practical approach to learning firewall deployment, security policy management, and VPN configuration. You benefit by gaining a solid foundation in network security administration tailored to Palo Alto technologies, aiming to prepare you thoroughly for certification and real-world application.
2023·698 pages·Network Administration, Network Security, Firewall Configuration, Security Policies, NAT

After years of guiding global telecom clients through complex technology landscapes, Nouman Ahmed Khan crafted this study guide to demystify Palo Alto Networks' security systems. You’ll gain hands-on skills with next-generation firewalls, mastering configuration, policy optimization, NAT, and VPN settings through detailed chapters and practical labs. This book suits network and security pros looking to sharpen their expertise or prepare for the PCNSA certification, especially those ready to dive deep into Palo Alto's architecture and tools. It’s particularly useful if you want a structured path to confidently handle firewall deployment and security monitoring.

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Best for foundational networking skills
"Mastering Network Essentials" stands out by thoroughly covering the fundamental technologies that power modern networks. This independently published guide introduces you to key concepts like the OSI model, IP addressing, and subnetting, alongside practical instruction on managing routers, switches, and firewalls. It further explains wireless networking and security protocols, addressing the needs of both newcomers and seasoned IT professionals. Whether you're preparing for a network administration role or looking to refresh your skills, this book lays a solid foundation to navigate and master today's complex network environments.
2023·195 pages·Networking, Network Administration, Networking Protocols, Network Security, Wireless Networking

Drawing from extensive experience in network technologies, Cybellium Ltd and Kris Hermans deliver a focused exploration of foundational networking concepts in this guide. You’ll learn critical skills such as IP addressing, subnetting, configuring routers and switches, and understanding protocols like TCP/IP, DNS, and DHCP. The book walks you through network topologies, wireless standards, and essential security practices, offering practical insights into troubleshooting common network issues. This resource suits aspiring IT professionals and network administrators aiming to solidify their grasp of core network essentials and confidently handle real-world network challenges.

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Best for custom network plans
This AI-created book on strategic network foresight is crafted based on your current knowledge, interests, and goals. Instead of generic coverage, it focuses on the specific developments and challenges you want to explore for future network environments. By tailoring the content around your background and aspirations, it helps you engage deeply with emerging technologies and prepares you for the changes ahead in network administration.
2025·50-300 pages·Network Administration, Network Evolution, Future Technologies, Security Challenges, Protocol Advances

This tailored book explores the evolving landscape of network environments heading into 2025 and beyond. It examines emerging technologies, protocols, and security challenges that are reshaping networks, emphasizing foresight to help you anticipate and prepare for future developments. Crafted to match your background and specific interests, the content delves into cutting-edge discoveries and personalized insights that align with your goals, making complex advances accessible and relevant. By focusing on your unique perspective, this book reveals how to stay ahead of rapid changes in network administration and build a resilient infrastructure ready for tomorrow's demands. It offers a thoughtful examination of trends and innovations, encouraging proactive learning and strategic readiness.

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Best for Linux network administrators
Alex Callejas, a services content architect at Red Hat with 20+ years in system administration, brings his deep expertise in open source and infrastructure hardening to this book. Based in Mexico City and an active contributor to the Fedora community, Callejas shares current insights into managing Fedora Linux environments, reflecting his dedication to empowering system administrators with reliable, up-to-date knowledge.
2023·560 pages·Network Administration, Linux, Fedora, System Configuration, Security

When Alex Callejas set out to write this guide, his goal was clear: to equip system administrators with practical tools and insights tailored to Fedora Linux environments. Drawing on over two decades of hands-on experience and his role at Red Hat, Callejas walks you through configuring Fedora from installation to advanced security measures like SELinux. You’ll explore virtualization techniques using QEMU and KVM and learn how to automate routine tasks, making your daily administration more efficient. This book suits those familiar with Linux basics who want to deepen their understanding of Fedora’s unique capabilities and optimize their workstations effectively.

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Best for Cisco IOS switch upgrades
Jason Joseph Bonczkowski Sr brings over 27 years of IT and federal government experience, complemented by his military service as a Master Sergeant, to this focused guide on Cisco Switch IOS upgrades. His extensive hands-on background and seven IT certifications inform a straightforward approach designed to save you time and reduce complexity. This book reflects his passion for making network administration faster and easier, rooted in real-world expertise and a commitment to clarity and precision.

What if managing Cisco Switch IOS upgrades was no longer a daunting task? Jason Joseph Bonczkowski Sr, with over 27 years in IT and a military background, designed this guide precisely to simplify that process. You’ll find device-specific chapters covering Cisco switches from 2000 to present, complete with diagrams and troubleshooting tips that clarify both hardware and software steps. This book doesn’t just show you how—it explains why each procedure matters, helping you avoid common pitfalls and maintain network integrity. Whether you're juggling a home setup or enterprise infrastructure, this book equips you with clear, practical knowledge to enhance your network administration skills.

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Jason Joseph Bonczkowski Sr, a retired Master Sergeant with extensive federal IT and military experience, channels over 27 years in technology and hands-on network management into this guide. His background in computer information technology and multiple certifications shape a practical, no-nonsense approach to Cisco IOS upgrades. This book reflects his commitment to helping network administrators save time and avoid common errors, offering a structured, up-to-date resource for both home and enterprise environments.

Jason Joseph Bonczkowski Sr's decades of federal IT experience culminate in this focused guide on Cisco IOS upgrades, blending military precision with practical network administration. You’ll find detailed, device-specific chapters covering Cisco routers from 2000 to the present, complete with diagrams and troubleshooting tips that demystify complex upgrade processes. The book doesn’t just show you how to upgrade; it explains why each step matters, helping you avoid common pitfalls and maintain secure, efficient networks. Whether managing a home setup or enterprise infrastructure, this volume offers clear, methodical instructions tailored specifically for Cisco environments, making it a reliable reference for network pros who want to stay current and confident in their skills.

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Conclusion

Across these eight books, a few clear themes emerge: the importance of automation through scripting, the critical role of security in network management, and the continued relevance of mastering foundational concepts alongside vendor-specific expertise. The fusion of practical guides and certification-focused study materials reflects the diverse needs of today's network professionals.

If you want to stay ahead of trends or dive into the latest research, start with the "CompTIA Network+ Study Guide" and "Active Directory" for broad foundational knowledge. For cutting-edge implementation, combine "Powershell for Networking" with the "STEP-By-STEP" Cisco IOS upgrade guides to modernize your network operations.

Alternatively, you can create a personalized Network Administration book to apply the newest strategies and latest research to your specific situation. These books offer the most current 2025 insights and can help you stay ahead of the curve.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Start with the "CompTIA Network+ Study Guide" if you're preparing for certification or new to network administration. It covers essential concepts clearly. From there, consider "Mastering Network Essentials" for foundational skills or "Active Directory" if you focus on Windows environments.

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

Not at all. Titles like "Mastering Network Essentials" and the "CompTIA Network+ Study Guide" are designed for beginners, while others like "Powershell for Networking" target more experienced users ready to automate tasks.

What’s the best order to read these books?

Begin with foundational guides such as "Mastering Network Essentials" or the "CompTIA Network+ Study Guide." Next, explore specialized topics like "Active Directory" or automation with "Powershell for Networking." Finish with vendor-specific manuals like the "STEP-By-STEP" Cisco IOS books.

Should I start with the newest book or a classic?

Focus on the newest editions as they reflect 2025’s current standards and technologies. For example, the latest "CompTIA Network+ Study Guide" aligns with the current exam objectives, ensuring up-to-date knowledge.

Can I skip around or do I need to read them cover to cover?

You can absolutely skip around based on your goals. Certification guides are structured sequentially, but practical manuals like "Powershell for Networking" allow you to focus on relevant chapters for immediate application.

How can personalized books complement these expert titles?

Yes, expert books provide solid foundations, but personalized books tailor insights to your experience and goals, keeping content fresh and relevant. Explore options to create a personalized Network Administration book that fits your unique needs.

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