The authors present a “clear analysis of existing methods and concepts for the management of heterogeneous, distributed systems” connected in a network. They are university professors with consulting experiences that have contributed to their practical outlook. This is both a textbook and a good reference for network and system designers. The focus on principles and background lengthens the book’s useful life, but you will have to look to the Internet for product information. This book is important, especially given the expanding use of networks. The Internet is fueling this growth by, for example, lowering the cost of communications for virtual private networks. Also, security issues are being addressed, encouraging network commerce. If a small local area network (LAN) is complex (and it is), then how much more conceptual help do you need with a global network? The five dimensions--network types, functional areas, stages, information types, and disciplines--shown in Figure 1.3, “Some of the Dimensions of Technical Management,” give the reader a good idea of the issues that have to be considered.

The book is divided into five sections: “Introduction and Fundamentals,” “Management Architectures,” “Management Tools,” “Operational Use,” and “Outlook.” Over 150 references are provided. Summary sentences in the margins (up to four per page) make the book easier to skim.

Probably the most important chapter, “Web Based Management Architectures,” clarifies the competing approaches using good diagrams. The approaches discussed include Sun’s Java Management Application Programming Interface, and Web Based Enterprise Management, which is backed by a consortium of manufacturers, including Microsoft. A newer consideration is Windows 2000, which simplifies virtual private networking as long as all of the computers are running this operating system. The final part of the book looks ahead, correctly predicting that Web-based tools, using browsers, are the way of the future.

In the chapter on “Use of Management Tools in Operation,” lists of routine management tasks, problem management tasks, and change management tasks provide a quick understanding of the work that needs to be done. Table 17.1, in the preceding chapter, provides a good overview of these tasks, grouping them by network, system, and application.

The authors conclude, “The lack of integration of management methods and tools in concrete company IT infrastructures is resulting in higher costs and personnel requirements.” Microsoft touts Windows 2000 as a way to reduce the total cost of ownership. When you finish reading this book, you will have the basis for a more informed opinion of your own.