Penn College News

Penn College professor authors book for IT professionals

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

The expertise of a Pennsylvania College of Technology faculty member will help information technology professionals worldwide incorporate a vital networking tool.

Lisa Bock, associate professor of computer information technology, has written “Learn Wireshark,” a 432-page book devoted to the software that aids network administrators in troubleshooting their networks and identifying potential attacks.



Lisa Bock“It is a workbook infused with theory,” Bock said. “My approach when teaching protocol analysis is to provide a deeper understanding of what normal protocol behavior looks like, so that you can recognize abnormal behavior and irregularities on the network.”

As described by Techopedia, “Wireshark is a free and open source network protocol analyzer that enables users to interactively browse the data traffic on a computer network.” According to the Wireshark website, it is “the world’s foremost and widely used network protocol analyzer.”

Bock’s book consists of 16 chapters covering a variety of topics, including navigating the Wireshark interface, troubleshooting network latency issues, and deep packet analysis of common protocols such as TCP, IP, ARP and ICMP. For many of the concepts, Bock provides online resources, so readers can download packet captures and follow lessons.

“Learn Wireshark” is published by Packt, a Birmingham, England, company that has published more than 6,500 books and videos geared to enhancing the skills of IT professionals.

Bock has a master’s degree from the University of Maryland University College and holds numerous certifications. She’s been trained in forensics, networking, steganography and network security. During the past 16 years, she has taught courses ranging from networking to biometrics and security to unified communications.

“We are proud of Lisa for her commitment to the IT profession. The book was a tremendous undertaking, and it is just the latest example of her passion for helping others advance their skills in a profession that impacts all of us,” said David R. Cotner, dean of Penn College’s School of Industrial, Computing & Engineering Technologies. “We’re fortunate she shares that passion with our students on a daily basis.”

Penn College offers several IT-related programs, including bachelor’s degrees in game and simulation programming, information assurance and cyber security, software development and information management, and information technology: network specialist concentration, as well as an associate degree in information technology: technical support technology emphasis.

For information about those majors and other programs offered by the college’s School of Industrial, Computing & Engineering Technologies, call 570-327-4520.

For information on Penn College, a national leader in applied technology education, email the Admissions Office or call toll-free 800-367-9222.