The Internet is constantly changing, and in order to keep up, an operator *must* understand new RFCs and mailing list discussion *as they occur*.
There's no time to wait for some to write a book simplifying things for you...
Not a book, more like a table of contents with introductory summaries. Consider that most new ISP's don't even know what IETF is, don't know what NANOG is, have never heard of BGP, etc....
Humm, I do remember repeated and consistant posting to the inet-access list with NANOG and IETF agendas, mtg times, and list information. This also went to the small-providers list and on at least one occasion to a couple of BBS USENET groups. On at least one of those occasions the person making the query was a M.Dillon and a Bill Manning replied. I have noted that there has not been much of a followup in those fora to let the "newbies" know when the next NANOG mtg is and that they are encouraged to attend. Time to dust off the distribution list again. Class is in session, time to do homework! Here is a list of reading/reference materials that will be used this term. Note that it will be modified as the term progresses. (Go for it. Geoff has volunteered space and assistance) --bill