Review of PC Magazine Windows XP Solutions (Paperback)

I've had the book for a couple of weeks now, and I keep learning new tricks.Most recently the book taught me how to create screen capture movies that I can e-mail to others.I'm using this trick mostly to create "here's how you do this" videos for my parents, which is a lot easier than trying to talk them through the computer challenge du jour over the phone.

Probably the next most useful sections of the book for me have been the parts covering User Profile managment.I've never found those tasks to be intuitive in WinXP, and the book does a great job of showing me how I can finally get some benefit out of Profiles, rather than the headaches they've been giving me since I got WinXP.

The book has other chapters on these topics, too:
*Working With Digital Cameras
*Making Videos
*Recording & Ripping Music
*Remote Control of Windows XP via the internet
*Using Windows XP as an Internet Server

Plus, of course, chapters on security, backups, installing hardware/software, and the other sorts of topics you'd expect from PC Magazine.

Product Description
* The practical, proven solutions Windows XP users have been looking for-from the source trusted by more than six million readers worldwide, PC Magazine
* Written like the magazine's popular "Solutions" feature, the book helps experienced Windows users work faster and smarter by customizing the interface, circumventing annoying features, and fixing common glitches
* Topics covered range from building a better Start Button and Task Bar, eliminating the new program notification on the Start menu, and cleaning up the Registry after an uninstall to safely removing old drivers, using the recover console after a crash, and dealing with DSL and other broadband connection problems
* Well written and organized for easy reference, the book shows the sixty-seven million Windows XP users how to save time and frustration-and make their PCs work the way they want them to

From the Back Cover
In the event of system failure

Sometimes a Windows XP installation can fail to the point where you can do nothing to save it. You have a number of options open to you, such as attempting to repair the installation and, at the other extreme, reformatting all your hard drives and starting over. However, often the easiest approach is to install a fresh instance of Windows XP on a new hard disk partition and then work from the new installation to recover data from the old installation.
--From Chapter 11, Locating and Migrating User Data

They say there's a solution to everything. When it comes to Windows XP, PC Magazine knows 'em all

Ever wish they'd consulted you before they designed Windows XP? Sure, it's a great system, but there's this one feature that makes you crazy. Or that annoying problem that keeps occurring. Well, you can rely on Neil Randall and your friends at PC Magazine to correct that oversight. Here's the complete compendium of solutions to the things that bug you, threaten your security, slow you down, or other-wise prevent Windows XP from achieving perfection.

You can redesign Windows XP

• Create the interface that works for you
• Tweak your taskbar and control your folders
• Remove the stuff that gets in your way
• Install what you want; dump what you don't
• Unlock hidden settings in Media Player
• Use Group Policy Editor to change the way users interact with their PCs
• Reinstall Windows without losing important files
• Lock it down with the Encrypting File System
• Find helpful features hidden in Outlook Express
• Dig into the Registry to remove every last trace of spyware

Click Here to see more reviews about: PC Magazine Windows XP Solutions (Paperback)

Review of PC Magazine Windows XP Solutions (Paperback)

I've had the book for a couple of weeks now, and I keep learning new tricks.Most recently the book taught me how to create screen capture movies that I can e-mail to others.I'm using this trick mostly to create "here's how you do this" videos for my parents, which is a lot easier than trying to talk them through the computer challenge du jour over the phone.

Probably the next most useful sections of the book for me have been the parts covering User Profile managment.I've never found those tasks to be intuitive in WinXP, and the book does a great job of showing me how I can finally get some benefit out of Profiles, rather than the headaches they've been giving me since I got WinXP.

The book has other chapters on these topics, too:
*Working With Digital Cameras
*Making Videos
*Recording & Ripping Music
*Remote Control of Windows XP via the internet
*Using Windows XP as an Internet Server

Plus, of course, chapters on security, backups, installing hardware/software, and the other sorts of topics you'd expect from PC Magazine.

Product Description
* The practical, proven solutions Windows XP users have been looking for-from the source trusted by more than six million readers worldwide, PC Magazine
* Written like the magazine's popular "Solutions" feature, the book helps experienced Windows users work faster and smarter by customizing the interface, circumventing annoying features, and fixing common glitches
* Topics covered range from building a better Start Button and Task Bar, eliminating the new program notification on the Start menu, and cleaning up the Registry after an uninstall to safely removing old drivers, using the recover console after a crash, and dealing with DSL and other broadband connection problems
* Well written and organized for easy reference, the book shows the sixty-seven million Windows XP users how to save time and frustration-and make their PCs work the way they want them to

From the Back Cover
In the event of system failure

Sometimes a Windows XP installation can fail to the point where you can do nothing to save it. You have a number of options open to you, such as attempting to repair the installation and, at the other extreme, reformatting all your hard drives and starting over. However, often the easiest approach is to install a fresh instance of Windows XP on a new hard disk partition and then work from the new installation to recover data from the old installation.
--From Chapter 11, Locating and Migrating User Data

They say there's a solution to everything. When it comes to Windows XP, PC Magazine knows 'em all

Ever wish they'd consulted you before they designed Windows XP? Sure, it's a great system, but there's this one feature that makes you crazy. Or that annoying problem that keeps occurring. Well, you can rely on Neil Randall and your friends at PC Magazine to correct that oversight. Here's the complete compendium of solutions to the things that bug you, threaten your security, slow you down, or other-wise prevent Windows XP from achieving perfection.

You can redesign Windows XP

• Create the interface that works for you
• Tweak your taskbar and control your folders
• Remove the stuff that gets in your way
• Install what you want; dump what you don't
• Unlock hidden settings in Media Player
• Use Group Policy Editor to change the way users interact with their PCs
• Reinstall Windows without losing important files
• Lock it down with the Encrypting File System
• Find helpful features hidden in Outlook Express
• Dig into the Registry to remove every last trace of spyware

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Review of Managing NFS and NIS (Paperback)

Hello, My name is Mike Eisler, and I am one of the
co-authors of Managing NFS and NIS, Second Edition.
I'm writing this note to offer additional information
to potential readers.

At the time I submitted this note, most of the
customer reviews for this book referred to the first edition.
One of the reviews states that the book is focused on NFS
version 2 over UDP and the old style automounter.
Actually, you'll find the second edition of our book
is more modern. New topics in the second edition
include NFS version 3, NFS over TCP, modern autofs-based
automounters, Kerberos V5 authentication for NFS, NFS Access
Control Lists (ACLs), and client side fail over.

Another difference is that first edition of this book
used SunOS 4.x as a reference for examples. The second
edition uses Solaris 8.

The second edition provides information you won't find
in NFS product documentation, such as using tools like ethereal
to debug NFS problems. This book will give you the benefit of
insights from people who probably wrote some of the code for
your clients and servers. You may find (and I hope) that
it will save you the trouble reporting a problem to
your vendor's customer support line.

Thank you for considering our book.



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Review of Complete Idiot's Guide to UNIX (The Complete Idiot's Guide) [ILLUSTRATED] (Paperback)

This is a very well written book as an intro to Unix. I know just about nothing on Unix and wanted to learn what Unix is about. After finishing this book, I found myself understanding how and what Unix is. It usessimple language to explain the OS to you instead of technical terms ofwhich leaves you scratching your head in sheer frustration. I found it veryenjoyable reading about how Unix was born and the different flavors of Unixout there. It also teaches you the basic shell commands to get around theOS. After finishing this book and practicing what you've learned in thebook, you're definitely able to move around a little bit better on Unixthan before. It won't turn you into an expert by any means but it will giveyou a good foundation for you to head toward that direction. I am usuallyvery skeptical about the Idiot or Dummy book series but this one is anexception to the rule. This is not one of those books which leaves youcompletely exhausted for you feel the task of learning Unix is going to bebeyond you. It leaves you feeling that Unix isn't all that tough. The bookdoes not go into details about any of the Unix flavors and what each istruly about, the security features or why one might be more suitable forcertain tasks you might want to do.

Product Description
You know that UNIX is the standard operating system of the Internet, and you want--no, you need-- to get on board. You're no moron. It's something you can figure out. You would like a little lift, though. The Complete Idiot's Guide to UNIX is what you need to get up to speed quickly, and in good humor. This book gives you the straightforward scoop with the most real-world impact.

From the Back Cover
You know that UNIX is the standard operating system of the Internet, and you want--no, you need-- to get on board. You're no moron. It's something you can figure out. You would like a little lift, though. The Complete Idiot's Guide to UNIX is what you need to get up to speed quickly, and in good humor. This book gives you the straightforward scoop with the most real-world impact.

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Review of MCTS: Microsoft Office SharePoint Server 2007 Configuration Study Guide: Exam 70-630 (Paperback)

I recently passed exam 70-630 (MCTS: MOSS Configuration) and this book was one of the study methods I used for preparing for the exam.Overall, this is an excellent resource for not only the exam but I found it to be a decent reference manual as well.The book covers all of the concepts you "need to know" without going into the great depths of every detail.It's easy to read and follow and retain the information.It is also they only book available specifically geared towards exam 70-630.

If you understand all of the concepts of this book and can answer the practice questions provided with it, you are more than ready for the real exam.My only critique about it is that I did not find the practice questions to be very helpful as many of them were much more detailed and more complicated than the actual exam.However, it's better to err on the side of complexity than making the practice questions too easy.

I would recommend pairing this book with a practice test vendor such as Self Test Software or Transcender and you should be successful in achieving your MCTS in MOSS Configuration.

Overall it's a very good study guide and reference book.

Product Description
Qualified SharePoint administrators are in demand, and what better way to show your expertise in this growing field than with Microsoft's new MCTS: Microsoft Office SharePoint Server 2007, Configuration certification. Inside, find everything you need to prepare for exam 70-630, including full coverage of exam topics?such as configuring content management, managing business intelligence, and more?as well as challenging review questions, real-world scenarios, practical exercises, and a CD with advanced testing software.

From the Back Cover
Prepare for Microsoft's new certification for SharePoint administrators

Qualified SharePoint administrators are in demand, and what better way to show your expertise in this growing field than with Microsoft's new MCTS: Microsoft Office SharePoint Server 2007, Configuration certification. Inside, find everything you need to prepare for exam 70-630, including full coverage of exam topics such as configuring content management, managing business intelligence, and more.

• Full coverage of all exam objectives in a systematic approach, so you can be confident you're getting the instruction you need for the exam

• Practical hands-on exercises to reinforce critical skills

• Real-world scenarios that put what you've learned in the context of actual job roles

• Challenging review questions in each chapter to prepare you for exam day

• Exam Essentials, a key feature in each chapter that identifies critical areas you must become proficient in before taking the exam

• A handy tear card that maps every official exam objective to the corresponding chapter in the book, so you can track your exam prep objective by objective

FEATURED ON THE CD

SYBEX TEST ERNGINE:
Test your knowledge with advanced testing software. Includes all chapter review questions and bonus exams.

ELECTRONIC FLASHCARDS:
Reinforce your understanding with flashcards that can run on your PC, Pocket PC, or Palm handheld.
Also on CD, you'll find the entire book in searchable and printable PDF.
Study anywhere, any time, and approach the exam with confidence.

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Review of Programming Role Playing Games with DirectX w/CD (The Premier Press Game Development Series) (Paperback)

This is a great book for anybody thinking about programming RPGs... And even if your not going to I would at least try to take a peak at the book and think about buying it.

First off the book assumes that the reader has a through knowledge of C programming and that you have some experience with coding. And has, like the rest of the series, quite a few pages devoted to C++... (The best thing with this book is you actually make a rpg game following the book and it's practices!)

The first part of the book covers what is role-playing, desiging role-playing games and some basic story-telling. The Jim covers basic programming with C++ as well as some engine architecture that is different from most other books - ex. Tricks from the Windows Game Programming Gurus. It introduces concepts like state managers, process managers and data packages - some great stuff for programming big games. The third part covers basic DirectGraphics concepts ("a whirlwind tour", according to the author). The code does the job really well and the concepts are well-explained.

After that the book covers information about DirectInput and DirectSound, the chapter on DirectInput includes information on programming joysticks, and other information in the book includes:wrappers for Direct3D, DirectSound and DirectInput, and followed by that, octrees and quadtrees, 2d tile engines, mixed 2d/3d engine, collison detection and so on.

The only problem I see is some of the real super newbies will see the book go at a fast rate... It has great explainations but he does move fast. And the author likes to leave out the obvious - so you have to pay attention in the beggining or you'll be turning pages back into the book to see whats up.

Basicaly, pick up this book if you are starting DirectX, pick up the book if you plan on crreating RPG games. The book is great, you'll have a working RPG game after going through the book, you will learn alot about DirectX and storytelling at that! 5 Stars.

Product Description
Amazing graphics, kickin' tunes, and an awesome story--these are the makings of a great role playing game and now they're all covered in one book! Programing Role Playing Games with DirectX covers all aspects of creating role playing games--from storyline development to hard core programming techniques that bring landscapes, music, and graphics to life. It offers more technical information than some of the theory-based books on the market and gives you the information you need to know regarding character building--the main component of computer-based role playing games.

About the Author
Jim Adams has been programming since age nine. For the past 22 years, he has worked various jobs in the business and entertainment industry.He has contributed to several books on game development and maintains a core library of DirectX functions to assist in game development.Jim is the author of the book "Programming Role Playing Game with DirectX" (Premier Press, 1931841098) and "Advanced Animation with DirectX" (Premier Press, 1592000371).

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Review of Mastering Microsoft Outlook 2000 (Paperback)

This book does a very good job of introducing you to this powerful e-mail tool.However, it doesn't adequatly explain some of the more advanced groupware/scheduling features of Outlook 2000.Look elsewhere for this type of info.

Product Description
Written for business people who really want to go beyond the basics,this definitive guide on Outlook quickly moves into intermediate andadvanced features. Challenging topics include security, emaildecoding, using Outlook with the Web, integrating Outlook with otherOffice applications, compatibility with email services, setting upOutlook for a LAN and as an Exchange Server client, and muchmore. With a comprehensive troubleshooting section, this is theOutlook book users will turn to for answers to the tough questions. Itcovers Outlook for stand-alone, LANs and Exchange Server environments,plus Outlook Express.

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Review of Maran Illustrated Office 2003 (Maran Illustrated) (Paperback)

I love the "Maran series" books. They are very helpful for people who are not a computer genius, since they show instructions step by step.

Product Description
Produced by the award-winning maranGraphics Group, Maran Illustrated™ Microsoft® Office 2003 is a valuable resource for all readers, regardless of experience. Clear, step-by-step instructions walk you through each operation from beginning to end. Helpful topic introductions and useful tips provide additional information and advice to enhance your Office 2003 experience and help meet your individual needs. Maran Illustrated™ Microsoft® Office 2003 is packed with information useful to those who have purchased their first computer and are learning Office 2003 for the first time. Those who have experience with older versions of Office will find this book an excellent guide to help them take command of their computing experience, by way of the easy-to-use maranGraphics format. You have the option of reading the book from cover to cover, or simply reading the individual topics they are interested in.

From the Publisher
Features a unique two-page spread, over 700 full-color screen shots, illustrations, and useful tips that appeal to and engage visual learners and simplify the learning process.

Provides extensive coverage of the latest version of Microsoft Office, Office 2003, including sections on Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, and Outlook, along with additional Getting Started with Office and Internet sections.

Uses simple, easy-to-understand, and concise text and covers over 140 essential topics, making it a great reference for all skill levels.

Written using Visual Grammar™, a proven method that combines instructions with full-color screen shots to provide the best synergistic learning experience available.

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Review of MobileMe for Small Business Portable Genius (Paperback)

A good introduction to working with Mobile Me, very good how to get things done.

Product Description

The Genius is in.

You don't have to be a genius to use MobileMe for your small business. But if you want to get the very most out of it, put this savvy Portable Genius guide to work. Want to see all that MobileMe can do to help you grow your small business? Learn how to set up MobileMe accounts for your employees? Synchronize calendars and business contacts to keep you connected with your colleagues and clients? Publish a company Web site with a click? You'll find cool and useful Genius tips, full-color screenshots, and pages of easy-to-access shortcuts and tools that will save you loads of time so you can make your business succeed.

Portable GENIUS

Fun, hip, and straightforward, the new Portable Genius series gives forward-thinking Apple users useful information in handy, compact books that are easy to navigate and don't skimp on the essentials. Collect the whole series and make the most of your Apple digital lifestyle.

About the Author

Brad Miser has written more than 30 books on various technology topics, including Teach Yourself Visually MacBook, MacBook Pro Portable Genius, My iPhone, Teach Yourself Visually MacBook Air, and MacBook Portable Genius. He has been a coauthor, development editor, or technical editor on more than 50 other titles.

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Review of Microsoft® Certification Careers: Earn More Money (Paperback)

As a person seeking a new career, I found this book to answer my most basic questions about IT (and I have to admit that my questions were pretty basic). The author details the distinctions among the types of Microsoft Certification and describes the types of certification exams (without--and this is important!--being a study guide for them). As to format, chapters end with summaries of the key ideas presented. Also, the book includes short interviews with people who work in the field. Much of the information is presented in easily digestable bullets and paragraph-long sections, so it can be absorbed by people who are reading the material after a long day at their present job. Although I ultimately decided that Microsoft Certification is not for me, this was the book that gave me the tools to make that decision.

Product Description
With Microsoft certification, you get one of the most highly regarded -- and bankable -- IT credentials in the world. But which of the many Microsoft certification programs is best for you?

This unique guide gives you a complete overview of Microsoft's many certification tracks and explains exactly what kind of career path and salary range you can expect with each of the credentials. With solid advice on how to prepare for certification exams, a comprehensive rundown of career resources, and seasoned tips on IT job hunting, it's the one guide you need to choose the right certification -- and launch your lucrative IT career.

Covers: MCSE NT 4 Exams

From the Back Cover
Your Road Map to Microsoft Certification-and a High-Paying Career!

With Microsoft certification, you can get one of the most highly regarded-and bankable-IT credentials in the world. But which of the many Microsoft certification programs is best for you?

This unique guide gives you a complete overview of Microsoft's many certification tracks and explains exactly what kind of a career path and salary range you can expect with each of the credentlials. With solid advice on how to prepare for certification exams, a comprehensive rundown of career resources, and seasoned tips on IT job hunting, it's the one guide you need to choose the right certification-and launch your lucrative IT career.

Inside, you'll find everything you need to plan a Microsoft Certification career!

• A self-assessment quiz to help you choose the right certification track
• Complete coverage of the newest Microsoft certification programs-MCSE + Internet, MCP + Internet, MCP + Site Building, MOUS, and MSS
• Expert advice on the best exam-preparation strategies
• In-deph portraits of the real-world careers you can pursue with each credential-including job descriptions and salary ranges
• Candid interviews with Microsoft Certified Professionals and industry leaders
• A comprehensive guide to career development resources-courses, job banks, Web sites, trade magazines, newsgroups, associations, and more
• Proven tips on mapping your career path, evaluating job prospects-and coming out on top in salary negotiations

Complete Coverage of Every Microsoft Certification Track

MCSE- Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer

MCSE + Internet - Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer plus Internet

MCSD - Microsoft Certified Solution Developer

MCP - Microsoft Certified Professional

MCP + Internet - Microsoft Certified Professional plus Internet

MCP + Site Building - Microsoft Certified Professional plus Site Building

MCT - Microsoft Certified Trainer

MCDBA - Microsoft Certified Database Administrator

MOUS - Microsoft Office User Specialist

MSS - Microsoft Sales Specialist

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