How to study network layer and understand?

[networkloser]

Ok..I have tried to study network layer from Kurose Ross for quite a bit but failed to understand. Stallings network book also went out of my head.

Now I am scared to learn about network layer because I think it is too difficult.

Let's face the fear by naming it.

Network layer means these concepts:


- datagram and virtual circuit

- routing principles and algorithms

- internet protocol (IP)

- ip addressing

- ip transport

- fragmentation and assembly

- ICMP

- routing on the internet

- RIP, OSPF

- router internals

- ipv6


I am learning this for exam but you can consider general way of learning for understanding. No such restrictions of time and stuffs.


What approach is best for this learning?