Linux All-in-One For Dummies Review

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(More customer reviews)I really only have one complaint about this book. Other than that, it's excellect. The book is intended for the almost newbie. That is someone who knows how to turn the machine on, knows that a mouse is a plastic thing with buttons instead of a furry thing in the pantry, and so forth.
The book is divided into eight major subsections, or as the book says, 8 mini books. These are intended to be self standing so that if you want to set up an internet server you really only to read that particular book (but you may want to read a couple of others like the ones on administration and security).
Like a lot of Linux books, this one comes with a DVD disk, filled with lots of software (the DVD can hold a lot more data than a conventional CD). Or for $11 you can order a set of CD's that contain the Fedorea 3 Core distribution.
One point about the book I liked, he tells you how to make a partition to dual boot Windows and Linux. But he also comments that you might want to set up your experimental Linux system on a separate freestanding machine. This is clearly the way to go. I bought a computer at a thrift shop recently - 1 GHZ AMD Athlon - certainly not the hottest iron on the market, but it was only $75, including a 17" monitor. I've seen too many people screw up an installation and wipe out a hard drive to suggest that the newbie do a dual boot.
The problem I have with the book. He includes five flavors of Linux on the disk. In the first part of the book he goes a bit into the various distributions, but he never makes a solid recommendation. (There is a hint that this was the editors recommendation to get one book that would please the fans of any distribution.) If the newbie knows enough to say that he wants Debian or SUSE or Fedora, he probably doesn't need a For Dummies book. And the author does not say the advantages of the particular distributions, merely that they are here and here's how you install them.
By default the DVD loads Fedora, and that's fine. But in the installation section the author has to jump around a lot talking about the way the other distributions do things and it gets confusing. When you read the installation chapter, feel free to ignore what you aren't using.

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A complete guide and reference to five major Linux distributions
Linux continues to grow in popularity worldwide as a low-cost, reliable operating system for enterprise use. Nine minibooks in this guide cover everything administrators need to know about the five leading versions: Ubuntu, Fedora Core, OpenSUSE, Mint, and Mandriva. The companion DVD includes full Ubuntu installations and ISO images for the other four, saving hours of downloading time.
The open source Linux operating system is gaining market share around the world for both desktop and server use; this soup-to-nuts guide covers installation and everything else administrators need to know about Ubuntu, Fedora Core, OpenSUSE, Mint, and Mandriva
Nine self-contained minibooks cover Linux basics, desktops, networking, Internet, administration, security, Linux servers, programming, and scripting
Updated to cover the newest versions of the five top distributions, with complete installation instructions and a DVD including the full Ubuntu installations and ISO images for the others

Linux users and administrators will be able to install and sample five popular Linux flavors with the information in Linux All-in-One For Dummies.
Note: CD-ROM/DVD and other supplementary materials are not included as part of eBook file.

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My iPad 2 (covers iOS 4.3) (2nd Edition) Review

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(More customer reviews)It has been said many times already, but it's worth repeating: iPad is one of the most revolutionary devices that have come around in years. On the surface it seem like a cross between a tablet PC, a net book and an iPod, but comparing it to any one of these other devices doesn't do the full justice. iPad is truly revolutionizing how we approach the use of computers, and it is bound to have an impact on all of the other computing devices. iPad is an always-on, easily accessible and intuitive computing platform. Even though the ease of use is one of its hallmarks, if you have never used an iPod or an iPhone you may have some initial difficulties with using it.
iPad 2 has been a major improvement on the original iPad concept. This device is thinner, lighter, faster, and it's equipped with two cameras, one on each face of the device. It is even more fun to use, and you almost start to feel that you could almost entirely ditch your computer.
"My iPad 2" aims to take away the mystery behind iPad 2 and help you make the most of it. The book is written in an extremely accessible and to-the-point style, and from the very outset it takes you straight to the actual demonstrations of how to achieve certain actions on your iPad 2. It helps you navigate the plethora of settings and adjustment options, and tries to make sense of them. This is in fact one of the book's greatest strengths - it is not just a bag of tricks, but also a clear and lucid explanation of the rationale behind every design option on your iPad 2 (both hardware and software). The book also covers some of the most important and useful general iPad apps (both paid and free), such as maps, Keynote, Numbers and Pages, as well some apps that take the full advantage of iPad 2's new capabilities, like Keynote and iMovie. It also gives a short list of some other cool aps with a brief description of each. Even seasoned iPhone, iPad or iPad 2 users will find many valuable tips and insights, and the book is a valuable reference for the long term use.
I also enjoyed the format of the book. The book is large, well presented, and easily navigable. The illustrations and screenshots are fairly large and very clear and they help to illustrate all the relevant material. It is a very intuitive guide for a very intuitive device.
As a side note, I have written this entire review on my iPad. I still don't use it as a full-fledged laptop replacement (nor was it meant to be used that way), but with addition of an external keyboard it can go a long way of meeting most of your daily productivity needs.


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My iPad 2 offers a full-color, fully illustrated, four-color step-by-step resource to using your iPad 2, the latest model from Apple that boasts a new faster processor and two video cameras. Each task is stepped through with corresponding visuals that are numbered to match the step they are referred by. Notes and sidebars give additional insight into using the iPad 2 without requiring you to sort through paragraphs of text to find the information you want. Tasks are clearly titled to help you quickly and easily find things you want to accomplish on your iPad 2. Everything from setup and configuration to using apps like Pages and Maps is clearly illustrated and easy to follow. Learn how to use the iPad 2's two cameras to take pictures and video, and share them with friends or chat with them live.• Connect your iPad to your Wi-Fi network and 3G networks• Take video with the front and rear camera• Video chat with your friends• Stream audio and video to Apple TV and other devices• Synchronize data between your computer and iPad• Watch movies, TV shows, YouTube, or home videos• Surf the Web and email• Download apps to make your iPad even more useful• Create documents and spreadsheets• Build and display presentations• Find locations and get directions• Find the best games• Connect keyboards, cameras, and external displays

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CompTIA Security+ All-in-One Exam Guide, Second Edition (Exam SY0-201) Review

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(More customer reviews)According to CompTIA's website, while not a prerequisite, they recommend that an individual sitting the Security+ exam have "at least two years of on-the-job technical networking experience, with an emphasis on security." They further recommend having the Network+ certification. My review of this book is based on an assumption that the individual using this book either meets these recommendations or, through some other means, has equivalent knowledge and experience.
As the author of an eLearning program that helps prepare people for the Security+ exam, I have considered the Security+ 2008 objectives more than most. This book covers everything you need to know to pass the Security+ exam - assuming you have the fundamentals of networking down. As an example, on page 15 (very early in the book) the authors assume you know what a port is when they say, "A network administrator can, for instance, move a service from its default port to a different port..." There is no explanation as to what a "port" is and, according to CompTIA's recommendations, there need not be.
I've given this as a simple example, but the book is filled with assumptions. It's probably a good thing. The book is nearly 700 pages now; imagine how large it would be if all of the knowledge were provided in this single resource. If you don't meet the recommendations that CompTIA suggests, I would encourage you to get this book along with your choice of a Network+ study guide. Then, even if you don't wish to acquire the Network+ certification, you will have the knowledge you need for the assumed information in this book.
I particularly liked the organization of this book. Part I deals with the theory of security (principles, organizational requirements, legal issues, etc.) and provides a foundation for the rest of the book. Part II deals with confidentiality in quite a bit more depth than is required by the Security+ exam. The coverage is closer to that needed for the CISSP exam. The next two parts, Security in the Infrastructure and Security in Transmission address the security needs for network access, data access and data transfer. The final part, excluding the Appendices, is Part V; here, issues related to operational and administrative security are addressed.
Overall, the information is presented in a sequence that makes it both digestible and memorable. I have to say that, in my opinion, this is the best Security+ book to come along yet.

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Dissecting the Hack: The F0rb1dd3n Network, Revised Edition Review

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(More customer reviews)I personally have never seen a book like this one. I think it has created a genre of its own, and I liked it. I hope that other authors might be able to build off this real life hacking, explanatory fiction. The story kept my attention, and the only con I can think of is that I just wished it was a little longer. I have already recommended this book to friends of mine, and they're planning on reading it too.

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Dissecting the Hack is one heck of a ride! Hackers, IT professional, and Infosec aficionados (as well as everyday people interested in security) will find a gripping story that takes the reader on a global trip through the world of computer security exploits. One-half thriller, one-half reference, each provides context for the other. Together they will show you how to see the digital world just below the surface of daily life.

Yes, the security threats are real! In this revised edition the Part 2 content is completely NEW. Read more about the tactics that you see executed throughout the story in the second half of the book where you will learn to recon, scan, explore, exploit, and expunge with the tools and techniques shown in the story.

Revised edition includes a completely NEW STAR Section (Part 2)
Utilizes actual hacking and security tools in its story- helps to familiarize a newbie with the many devices and their code
Introduces basic hacking techniques in real life context for ease of learning
Presented in the words of the hacker/security pro, effortlessly envelops the beginner in the language of the hack
Check out the companion site at www.dissectingthehack.com complete with an interactive forum!
Exclusive interviews in this revised edition include thoughtful insights into security issues and hacking culture from industry leaders Dan Kaminsky, Johnny Long, Jeff Moss and Marcus Ranum

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CompTIA Network+ N10-004 Exam Cram (3rd Edition) Review

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(More customer reviews)This book was almost good. but there are just too many mistakes. Lots and lots of typos, And I mean big ones that should have gotten caught. I have read the book twice now and the second time through I have found many more subtle errors. You will read a set of technical specifications and then on the next page a chart or graph will contradict the previously read material. You are now left with deciding which is right, and that's only if you notice it. Many mistakes are obvious some are not and others are just very confusing and make you scratch you head for a few minutes trying to figure out what they mean. The CD that comes with it is worthless. It has 30 questions, and when you go to buy more they want $109.00 for 200 more questions. wow. I found 300 practice questions from simulation exams for $27.00. So In short I would recommend one of the other books that have come out for network+ 2009 N10-1004 exam even though I haven't read them. Mike meyers just came out with one that has 200 practice questions on CD I don't know if its good But it can't be worse that this book.
Stephen

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Thenew edition of CompTIA Network+ Exam Cramis the first book to cover the Network+ 2009 exam.Covers the critical information you'll need to know to score higher on your Network+ exam!Implement proven best practices for managing networks efficiently and reliably Thoroughly understand network hardware components, devices, cabling, and connectors Systematically review TCP/IP, related network protocols, and the OSI model Manage network operating systems and clients Identify network vulnerabilities and configure network security to address them Use security tools such as cryptography and antivirus software Provide reliable, secure Internet access, WAN access, and VLAN support Implement disaster recovery plans that protect business continuity Troubleshoot network and Internet connectivity problems Efficiently document the network and provide high-quality user supportCD Features Test Engine!Detailed explanations of correct and incorrect answers Multiple test modes Random questions and order of answers Coverage of each Network+ exam objective

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Smart Home Automation with Linux (Expert's Voice in Linux) Review

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(More customer reviews)You can easily invest a lot of time and money into Home Automation (HA) projects only to find they don't work as anticipated. This book records the extensive experience of the author in HA and a hence could be a good investment to help you avoid or at least reduce frustration and improve your chances of successfully and enjoyably harnessing hardware and software to improve your quality of life. To gain the maximum benefit from this book, you need to be competent at installing hardware and wiring it up as well as doing web page development and scripting. Linux/Open Source Software is the main HA vehicle covered for a number of reasons- the inheritance from Unix of applications doing one thing and doing it well, the ability to use scripts to integrate key applications, and finally the ability to customise applications to your needs due to the ready availablity of source code. While there are plenty of illustrative snippets of code throughout the book, there are no complete examples provided, nor are copies of the source code provided from the publisher's site. You may find this acceptable given everyone's home automation solutions are unique, but I'm sure many would appreciate seeing how a HA solution is integrated. Then again, perhaps the author was concerned about the security risk to his HA implementation! To the author's credit, security concerns are regularly addressed throughout the book. Comprising just 7 chapters, with no appendices and an adequate index, this book still does a commendable job of covering the many aspects anyone planning HA needs to consider before investing in any hardware.
The first chapter jumps straight into how to use X10 hardware to control electrical appliances and lighting with plenty of practical information for those interested in setting up their home using this protocol. Other competing or complementary techniques, i.e. C-Bus, Ethernet and InfraRed are also briefly covered.
Chapter 2 looks at how to hack appliances such as game consoles, Linux powered WiFi Routers and NAS devices (with particular attention given to the Slug aka NSLU2, laptops, Arduino, Lego Mindstorms) and includes links to relevant hacking sites.
Media has chapter 3 dedicated to it; how to source your media, extract, store, distribute and control it.
Considerations on the best way to wire your home and locate servers and access points are covered in chapter 4, based on the more difficult two storey dwelling scenario. Irrespective of your dwelling construction, there are plenty of points raised in this chapter for consideration to help you implement a reliable, non-intrusive and reasonably secure HA solution.
Chapter 5 covers the various communications technologies that can be used to good effect for your HA implementation, with IP Telephony (Skype and Asterisk), email, voice, web access, and SMS all included. Techiques on how to process email, web and SMS based communications are covered, including suggestions on how to reduce the risk of security breaches.
I found chapter 6 on Data Sources particularly interesting, with the author covering ownership and the associated legal issues with personal use and how these become even more restrictive with family use and wider distribution. The chapter then goes on to look at how you can collect useful public data to assist your daily life, such as access to public transport time tables, traffic, weather, TV and Radio content and how you can use these with private data from calendars, webmail, Twitter and Facebook for personal automation.
Of particular interest for those skilled in coding, the final chapter covers how to integrate HA technologies with Minerva, showing in detail how to configure Minerva and its components to provide a secure HA solution that requires minimal maintenance by using device and application abstractions.
While there are no appendices, the book has an adequate index, but the real gems can best be found by reading through the book. Thanks to a reference in chapter 6, I finally found some Linux logging software for my weather station!

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Every amateur and professional Linux user in the world has the opportunity to remotely control their home and the gadgets in their home, and this book shows them how! A practical look by Steven Goodwin, the man behind the Minerva home automation suite. With large numbers of people now using Linux on netbooks in their homes, there is a huge audience for home automation using Linux.

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Killing Rommel: A Novel Review

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(More customer reviews)The short line on Steven Pressfield's new book: the best. It almost hurts to write that because I've hung to Gates of Fire for a decade at the top of my best books ever list, a list that includes books from a wide genre, Victor Hugo to Stephen King, Tom Clancy to Par Lagerkvist, Mark Helprin to Howard Fast and everywhere in between. Pressfield's characters captured me from the first pages, and this tale of honor among men refused to let me put the book down. If you are a Pressfield fan, this book will not disappoint you on any level. If you are new to Mr. Pressfield, this book will encourage you to read his others.
I am particularly fond of historical novels because I consider them a painless way to learn history. Mr. Pressfield has never failed to teach his readers all the details within the historical context in which he writes, in this case, about the little known Long Range Desert Group, the LRDG, the predecessor to Special Forces as we know them in the modern era.
The story is simple: the memoir of a LRDG lieutenant who is part of a mission to kill Field Marshall Rommel and thereby disrupt the Axis control of North Africa and its hold on oil assets in the Middle East during World War II. The characters are noteworthy: average men with simple vocations who rise above their commonality in extraordinary circumstances by committing themselves to a mission simply because it was their job. The prose is crisp and fast and the story moves quickly and with intensity.
That is the short of it: great story with great characters that is impossible to put down until you've finished the final page. Scrupulously researched like all Pressfield books and packed with the type of action that would draw viewers to the big screen in droves. Hollywood cannot let this one pass. That's the short of it. If you need more, please continue .....
Steven Pressfield is a literary risk-taker: he started with a mystical golf journey, moved into the realm of ancient Greek history and now finds himself in the blistering deserts of North Africa surrounded by Rommel's Africa Corp. The common thread: ordinary men are capable of uncommon deeds when their purpose is fixed and their hearts are committed. Pressfield has told his stories as a fictional character, as a mythical woman, as a real historical character and now as Everyman in the guise of Lt. Chapman, "Chap" who finds himself in the middle of an unthinkable mission to cut off the head of the snake, to kill arguably the most dynamic military mind of modern warfare, Field Marshall Erwin Rommel.
As I journeyed through Mr. Pressfield's ancient histories, I was always very comfortable with his prose. It immersed me into a world, ancient and distant from my own. His prose is part of his genius as it captures the flavor of his historical era. Killing Rommel is his best writing yet. Mr. Pressfield has even elected to use the `s' in place of the `z' as is common in the King's English, "civilisation," for example instead of "civilization;" "tire" becomes "tyre." The choice of words and sentence structure help set the mood of the book by thrusting the reader into the 1940's. The reader becomes a part of the story.
From start to finish, our narrator emphasizes the character of Rommel, chivalrous and honorable. Despite Rommel's admirable personal qualities, the Allies are convinced that without him, the Axis struggle in North Africa will collapse, hence Churchill's directive to kill Rommel. I will not reveal any of the many twists that Mr. Pressfield has crafted, but when I finished the book, I held the same respect for the Desert Fox that was shared by Eisenhower, Patton, Montgomery and the members of the LRDG, heroes all. Within hours after finishing the book, I found myself contemplating how the German Republic could have produced two, such diverse characters at each end of the proverbial spectrum as Erwin Rommel and Adolf Hitler. How could one wage war with regret and honor while the other directed the murder of millions of innocent people? Intentionally or not, Mr. Pressfield elicited these questions from me as I read this book. While there is no answer, the future requires us to ask ourselves such questions as we reflect on our past.
You probably already know that Rommel was not killed by the LRDG or any other group of Allies. The pursuit and the encounter however will make this harrowing journey through the desert more than worthwhile.
I am a slow reader. A solid 80% of the books I read are novels. Only once in my life have I ever sat and read a book from cover to cover with no breaks. One Friday evening in 1971 while in pilot training in Georgia, I opened The Exorcist and didn't put it down until early the next morning, scared witless I might add. Thirty-seven years later, older and wiser, I did the same thing with Killing Rommel; I devoured it in a single night. This time when I put the book down, I felt pride to be able to call myself a true brother-in-arms to soldiers past, present and future.
Four decades ago while still a senior in college, I read Armageddon by Leon Uris. That is the only novel I have ever used a magic marker on. Within the last month, I had that old 1963 copy out and found exactly the passages I was looking for thanks to that blue marker. Last week, once again, I broke out a marker and wielded it for the first time in 40 years while I read Killing Rommel. I sensed early on that this is a special book. I was right. In what is certainly a profound, autobiographical conviction, Mr. Pressfield has Chap's 'dear friend and brother-in-law' include these words in Chap's eulogy, "Literature was his religion. He believed in the written word, in the soul-to-soul communion between writer and reader that takes place in the silence between the covers of a book."
American historian and philosopher Will Durant once said, "We Americans are the best informed people on earth as to the events of the last twenty-four hours; we are the not the best informed as to the events of the last sixty centuries." For a decade now, Steven Pressfield has given us a very entertaining way to play catch up. We need to thank him and exploit his efforts. Mr. Pressfield believes in the written word.


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