Review of Perl for Dummies (Third Edition) (Paperback)

I am copying an excerpt from "The Perl Journal" review of this book.

__START__

Summary: This is a really rotten book. Very few books are able to attain as many as eight major flaws:

1.'Dummy' approach encourages and reinforces the reader's disability

2.Lack of concrete programming examples

3.Lack of general discussion of how to program, apart from language-specific features

4.Reference manual organization style

5.Inclusion of too many useless and abstruse features

6.Complicated explanations where simple ones arepossible

7.Scaremongering and panic instead of calm explanation of affairs

8.Many, many technical errors, some very serious

__END__

I taught myself Perl with little programming background (BASIC, 20 years ago). I started 1 1/2 years ago and am now using it daily as a web developer and data analyst.

Learning Perl from the books and resources out there is *extremely* difficult. There were many times I could've saved 3 weeks of hammering on a script if a perl guru had said, "Hey, list context just means the function wants a list, like an array or hash." I understand very well that the O'Reilly books are godawful for a beginner b/c that's where I started and suffered long from every explanation that said simply, "It's just like in C, so we won't explain it." That said, the books are pretty terrific once you're at a level to absorb them, but steer clear before then, unless you already know everything that POSIX means.

It might be tempting to pick up this book b/c there are pretty much no Perl books for those who haven't coded already. You should consider "The Elements of Perl" instead of this one. It's a better start for beginners and a wonderful way to start to understand Perl, its idioms, its culture, and how to program well. There is also "The Perl Black Book" which is a much better overview of the Perl than any single O'Reilly book, though the author isn't a guru, he's a good writer and tackles everything from the basics to advanced stuff with lots of examples and a CD with all the code.

Perl is wonderful, so please do pick up a book, just not this one.



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Review of Linux User's Guide: Using the Command Line & Gnome With Red Hat Linux (Paperback)

When asked to suggest a new textbook for our new OS course, I recommended this book.
After speaking with a Franklin-Beedle editor, who allowed us to work closely with the author to help produce this book, it proved to be not only a good fit for our course but an excellent beginner's guide to Linux, the Gnome windowed environment and Red Hat Linux distro.
I highly recommend this text for anyone who is new to and would like to see side-by side examples of the command-line and windowed environments that make Linux such a stable and reliable computing solution.
Bob Ruby II (mentioned in the "Acknowledgements" of this book)
www.bobrubyii.com
bobrubyii.ning.com



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Review of Scene of the Cybercrime: Computer Forensics Handbook [ILLUSTRATED] (Paperback)

I'm currently in the middle of the book Scene Of The Cybercrime by Debra Littlejohn Shinder, but I decided to do a review right now.This is a really good book on a number of levels...

Most books on computer and network security are written for the techie trying to secure their assets from outside attack.Obviously, there's a huge need for that information.But it seems that there is virtually nothing written from the law enforcement perspective on computer security.That's a major problem in two ways...For one, there are too few law enforcement personnel that understand exactly what cybercrime is and how it can be detected, fought, and prosecuted.That's probably the audience that would benefit most from this book.Second, most technical personnel don't know what to do in order to successfully build a case and prosecute an attacker once an intrusion has occurred.That's the other audience that will gain the most from reading Shinder's work.

The book includes the following chapters:Facing the Cybercrime Problem Head On; Reviewing the History of Cybercrime; Understanding the People on the Scene; Understanding Computer Basics; Understanding Network Basics; Understanding Network Intrusions and Attacks; Understanding Cybercrime Prevention; Implementing System Security; Implementing Cybercrime Detection Techniques; Collecting and Preserving Digital Evidence; Building the Cybercrime Case

The hardcore network security administrator will probably already know most of the information in the "Understanding..." chapters.But unless they are adept or experienced in forensic analysis, the last three chapters will be crucial information for them.Without the knowledge of how to preserve evidence, there's a good chance that you'll never have the satisfaction of seeing your attacker prosecuted.Higher level managers of a corporate security department will find all of this information useful, as they may not be as hands-on as the administrators and may not understand what threats and risks are present in today's environment.

From the law enforcement perspective, it's all good.Fighting cybercrime is so different than regular law enforcement.This is the perfect volume to give the budding cybercop all the information they need to get up to speed with how crime is conducted electronically.I would recommend that this book be required reading for law enforcement and prosecution personnel.

The book is well written with plenty of real-life examples of criminal activities and legal scenarios.It's one of the most engrossing technical reads I've had in awhile.A definite recommended read...

Product Description
"Cybercrime and cyber-terrorism represent a serious challenge to society as a whole." - Hans Christian Krüger, Deputy Secretary General of the Council of Europe
Crime has been with us as long as laws have existed, and modern technology has given us a new type of criminal activity: cybercrime. Computer and network related crime is a problem that spans the globe, and unites those in two disparate fields: law enforcement and information technology.

This book will help both IT pros and law enforcement specialists understand both their own roles and those of the other, and show why that understanding and an organized, cooperative effort is necessary to win the fight against this new type of crime.

62% of US companies reported computer-related security breaches resulting in damages of $124 million dollars. This data is an indication of the massive need for Cybercrime training within the IT and law enforcement communities.
The only book that covers Cybercrime from forensic investigation through prosecution.
Cybercrime is one of the battlefields in the war against terror.

About the Author
Debra Littlejohn Shinder is a former Police Sergeant and Police Academy Instructor, turned IT professional. She and her husband, Dr. Thomas W. Shinder, have provided network consulting services to businesses and municipalities, conducted training at colleges and technical training centers, and spoken at seminars around the country. Deb specializes in networking and security, and she and Tom have written numerous books, including the best selling Configuring ISA Server 2000 (Syngress Publishing, ISBN: 1-928994-29-6), and Deb is the sole author of Computer Networking Essentials. Deb also is the author of over 100 articles for print publications and electronic magazines such as TechProGuild, CNET, 8Wire, and Cramsession.com. Deb is a member of the editorial board of the Journal of Police Crisis Negotiations and the advisory board of the Eastfield College Criminal Justice Training Center. Ed Tittel (Technical Editor) is a 20-year veteran of the computing industry who's worked as a programmer, systems engineer, technical manager, writer, consultant, and trainer. A contributor to over 100 computer books, Ed created the Exam Cram series of certification guides. Ed also writes for numerous Web sites and magazines on certification topics including InformIT.

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Review of Alan Simpson's Windows XP Bible (Paperback)

I picked this book up because I was looking for details on Microsofts "latest and greatest."I have to admit I should have done more research.
This book is probably suitable for someone new to windows(any flavor) and computers.

It is full of basic information and is well written,
however if you have no difficulties maneuvering in previous versions of Windows or consider yourself a poweruser...look elsewhere.



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Review of Oracle9i for Windows(R) Handbook (Paperback)

"Oracle 9i for Windows Handbook," is a good book for me to learn Oracle 9i in Windows environment. When I suddenly found this book in Borders, I was very excited to read it for 1 hour. And then I ordered it online.

I like the author's writing style. Before I read this book, I was very confused about how to create a oracle 9i database manually in Windows 2000. I don't know the commands and registry key in Windows 2000. After reading this book, I get all the answers in this book.

In this book, you will find it very clear to learn how to create a database using DBCA and how to create a database manually. This book also gives me a good idea about how to upgrade from oracle 8/8i to oralce 9i using database migration assistant or using export and import command. The author makes a comment on when is the best time to use them separately. I also learn how to backup the database using cold backup, hot backup and recovery manager.

If you want to go through Oracle 9i and have a hands-on experience in your own PC, I recommand that you use this book as a reference. This book covers a lot of topics, but maybe you will find that's not enoght for you to know Oracle 9i in detail. I still recommend that the beginners read this book.

Product Description
This authorized guide from Oracle Press explains how to implement the Oracle9i Server on Windows NT/2000. You'll get details on operating system fundamentals, installation, and configuration, plus intermediate and advanced topics such as architecture, migration, clustering, parallel server, performance monitoring, troubleshooting, and using Oracle Enterprise Manager.

From the Back Cover
Deploy Oracle9i in the Windows Environment

Get full details on running Oracle9i on the Windows platform from this in-depth resource. From the exclusive publisher of Oracle Press books, Oracle9i for Windows Handbook covers installation, migration, database administration, application server administration in the middle-tier, security, and much more. Inside, you'll find out how to implement all the powerful features of Oracle9i and optimize system performance.

• Install and configure Oracle9i on Windows NT/2000/XP Professional
• Migrate or upgrade from Oracle8 and Oracle8i
• Create an Oracle9i database, using standard and custom templates
• Perform administrative tasks and handle backup and recovery
• Utilize Oracle Net Services
• Handle backup and recovery with Oracle Recovery Manager (RMAN)
• Use Oracle Enterprise Manager (EM) for single-point administration
• Install and deploy Oracle9i Application Server
• Deploy Oracle Internet File System, Oracle Portal, and Oracle Internet Directory
• Implement sound security measures

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Review of WordPerfect Office 2000 For Dummies (For Dummies Series) (Paperback)

This book covers most of Word Perfect Office 2000 in the usual quick and easy "for dummies" style, but it does NOT (as promised in the synopsis) review the use of Paradox. If you want info on using Paradox youwill have to go somewhere else.

Product Description

Run your home office with speed and efficiency. If you own WordPerfect Office 2000, you've already made one good choice. Now it's time to master WordPerfect, and we've got just the game plan to turn you into a WordPerfect whiz. Leave it to WordPerfect Office 2000 For Dummies, and you'll be running through WordPerfect Office 2000 in no time.

This fantastic ...For Dummies book offers you the opportunity to master the whole gamut of WordPerfect Office programs and functions. You can use WordPerfect to create written presentations that you can show off with pride. Line up your numbers and information and give yourself easy access to records by using Quattro Pro. Save yourself a thousand words by using the WordPerfect Office 2000 program's easy way to add graphics, charts, and tables, and save yourself all kinds of embarrassment by using its many handy proofreading tools.

WordPerfect Office 2000 For Dummies can do more than help you with presentations. Discover the fast and friendly way to get organized and manage your time with CorelCentral. You may even find yourself getting more done after dictating your documents with Dragon NaturallySpeaking. Let WordPerfect Office 2000 make your computing life a cinch the fast and simple way.

From the Back Cover
WordPerfect Office 2000 "Cheat Sheet" Inside!

Harness the Power of WordPerfect Office 2000 WordPerfect(r) Office 2000 For Dummies(r) tells you what you need to know to put Corel's popular and versatile suite to work in all your everyday office computing tasks. Get up and running on WordPerfect, Quattro Pro, Presentations, CorelCentral and more! Find out how they can all work together to make you even more productive!

Inside, find helpful advice on how to:
* Save time and get more done by using WordPerfect Office 2000 programs together
* Use WordPerfect to easily create professional-looking letters, reports, and more
* Produce attention-getting multimedia presentations
* Track inventory and handle all your accounting needs with Quattro Pro spreadsheets
* Add graphics, photos, and charts to make any document come alive
* Organize your contacts and manage your time with CorelCentral
* Dictate documents using Dragon NaturallySpeaking

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Review of MCSE Windows 2000 Professional for Dummies (with CD-ROM, covers test #70- [ILLUSTRATED] (Paperback)

I just took the exam yesterday got 820! Needed 620 to pass.I had NEVER used or read anything about 2000 till May 2001.Brought the book studied one new chapter a day.Then spent nearly 2 weeks review. I put 2000 on my computer and did at least3 pratise exams a day.I spent usually 30 minutes on each exam answering 60 questions.I also used Transcender but that got boring after you have taken the same exams 5 times.The amount of questions really helped.On my test I had at LEAST 10 questions and exhibits on IP and RIS. Know the requirements for RIS. Another good thing--He puts in LOTS of diagrams.Pay close attention--Microsoft will ask you what options are on a particular screen. Now the bad points:

The author has a section on IP but he really should say more about HOSTS, LMHOSTS, and DNS and some of the problems that you may see. He says he will mention backup in chapter 8--could not find it. :-(His section on backup in chapter 13 does enough forthe test but he does not even tell you about the differant types of backup--daily, copy, etc. On some exam questions the answers are like TRACERT but they are not mentioned in the book.He should give the common IP commands in the network section.All he says is using ping and IPCONFIG.He does not even mention some of the options such as RELEASE and RENEW.These are small things but I think he should beef up the network section a little.

I should state that I have used WIN '95/NT for 6 years. All in all...GET THE BOOK AND TRANSCENDER and you will pass then test.

All

Product Description
...For Dummies gives you just what you need to pass this core exam on the MCSE Windows 2000 track.

Covers: Exam 070-210

From the Publisher
Like all MCSE Certification For Dummies titles, MCSEWINDOWS 2000 PROFESSIONAL FOR DUMMIES carries the Microsoft CertifiedProfessional Approved Study Guide seal of approval.

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Review of The Elements of User Interface Design (Paperback)

Mandel's book was one of several UI books I got when I was trying to implement a process for designing Web user interfaces at my workplace.Mandel has an entire chapter on it, "The User Interface Design Process", which on flipping through the pages seems quite comprehensive.

It turns out, however, that Mandel's intention in this book is to introduce the theory and practice of Object Oriented User Interfaces (OOUIs), through a brilliant "foundations" part that covers the concepts and evolution of user interfaces, two OOUI parts that profile and detail OOUIs, and an "Advanced" part that looks at evolving user interface concepts and issues.

Unfortunately, not only are Web interfaces covered in but a single chapter in the last part of the book, but the chapter merely explores, without a conclusion, how the Web interface is strikingly different from the traditional PC desktop interface.OOUI principles are in no way applicable to building Web applications (Consider what impact the OOUI tenet "Users must Understand Direct Manipulation (Drag and Drop)" would have on download time and cross-browser development costs in a Web project).

Overall, the book is a great read, a necessary reference for any UI designer, but avoid it if you're looking for solutions, especially for Web-based applications.

Product Description
". . . a book that should be forced on every developer working today.

If only half the rules in this book were followed, the quality of most programs would increase tenfold." -Kevin Bachus, praising Theo Mandel's The GUI-OOUI War

A total guide to mastering the art and science of user interface design

For most computer users, the user interface is the software, and in today's ultracompetitive software markets, developers can't afford to provide users and clients with anything less than optimal software ease, usability, and appeal.

The Elements of User Interface Design is written by a cognitive psychologist and interface design specialist with more than a decade's research and design experience. Writing for novices and veteran developers and designers alike, Dr. Mandel takes you from command-line interfaces and graphical-user interfaces (GUIs) to object-oriented user interfaces (OOUIs) and cutting-edge interface technologies and techniques. Throughout, coverage is liberally supplemented with screen shots, real-life case studies, and vignettes that bring interface design principles to life.

Destined to become the bible for a new generation of designers and developers, The Elements of User Interface Design

Arms you with a "tested-in-the-trenches," four-phase, iterative design process
* Analyzes well-known interfaces, including Windows 95, Windows NT, OS/2 Warp, Microsoft Bob, Visual Basic, Macintosh, and the World Wide Web
* Schools you in object-oriented interface (OOUI) design principles and techniques
* Offers practical coverage of interface agents, wizards, voice interaction, social user interfaces, Web design, and other new and emerging technologies

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Review of Secure Electronic Transactions Introduction and Technical Reference (Computing Library) (Hardcover)

This book describes SET payment process & protocal standands clearly. I think someone who is new to SET process can read this book and it would definetly be helpful.

Product Description
"SET" (Secure Electronic Transactions) is the electronic payment protocol recently selected by VISA, MasterCard and other major credit card companies as the new global standard for ensuring security and confidentiality when linking credit card holders, merchants, and financial institutions conducting business over the Internet. This detailed, yet reader-friendly guide to understanding this sophisticated technology will be one of the first -- if not the first -- books on this hot topic and is "must reading" for programmers and business managers who need to know how SET will impact their businesses.

Authored by a well-known conference speaker and writer for leading computer magazines, the book provides readers with a working knowledge of what electronic commerce is, and the various payment and security systems that have led to online credit card commerce, familiarity with the cryptographic extensions utilized by the SET system, the technical details behind SET, from purchase initiation, through certificate management, to data transport protocols, programming examples and computer code for constructing and rolling out a SET system.

The book includes a bound-in CD-ROM with a working demonstration of electronic commerce using the SET protocol, and ready-made protocol routines that programmers can use as a guide for SET implementation.

About the Author
Larry Loeb is the Principal of pbc enterprises. He has written and edited extensively for printed and online computer publications including BYTE, WebWeek, MacWorld, and Internet World.

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