Showing posts with label Microsoft Windows. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Microsoft Windows. Show all posts

2/08/2010

Review of Windows XP Headaches: How to Fix Common (and Not So Common) Problems in a Hurry (Paperback)

No big secrets here, but it sure makes it easier to do things with XP than the program help files.

Product Description
Windows XP Headaches is the ultimate resource for fast and effective troubleshooting. From taskbar troubles to aggravating security issues this solutions-packed guide helps you identify the symptom and quickly diagnose and treat the problem--and even helps to alleviate migraine-causing problems like system crashes, installation issues, and boot failures.

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2/04/2010

Review of Microsoft Windows XP Step by Step (Cpg-Other) [ILLUSTRATED] (Paperback)

Whenever a new Operating system from Microsoft comes along I like to make sure that I understand the basics to ensure that I can support the end user community when the transition takes place. Microsoft Press step by step series is a great way to work with the application and learn what it takes to support it at the same time.

The book begins right at the very beginning with the login process to both the Professional and Home versions of the software. The book has you working with the desktop and the user profiles. I found that the coverage of both versions is good but there could have to separate books produced.

Setting up user accounts, the taskbar, shortcuts are the next areas you will work with. From there you move to the hardware section, working with local and network printers, scanner and cameras to name a few of the hardware components.

Files management is given serious coverage and well as folders and the personalization of the XP environment. Working with the communication section you'll be able to link up to others, the internet and a network.

Games, Music, Photos and troubleshooting round out this very complete book. With the practice files on cdrom included and the ability to learn at your pace maybe the new trend in the learning process.

Product Description
MICROSOFT WINDOWS XP STEP BY STEP offers self-paced instruction to the beginning-to-intermediate user who wants to get the most out of Windows XP. This personal training system offers easy-to-follow lessons full of clear objectives, a wealth of task-oriented procedures, and dozens of real-world business scenarios. MICROSOFT WINDOWS XP STEP BY STEP consists of friendly, straightforward instruction with dozens of full-color screenshots and illustrations to help you learn exactly what you need to know at your own pace. A companion CD-ROM includes practice files that are tightly integrated with the lessons, plus movie-style demonstrations of key procedures. Other features include a "QuickLook Guide" for easy visual navigation, a "Finding the Best Starting Point for You" section to help you decide how to get the most out of the book, and a special lay-flat binding to keep the book open during lessons.

About the Author
Online Training Solutions, Inc. (OTSI) is a traditional and electronic publishing company specializing in the creation, production, and delivery of computer software training. OTSI publishes the Quick Course® and Practical Business Skills™ series of computer and business training products.--This text refers to the Paperback edition.

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1/31/2010

Review of Windows 2000 Administration for Dummies (Paperback)

Having worked as a systems administrator for a Windows NT (as well as Unix and Linux) network(s), I found this book to be completely silly, and of hardly any real use whatsoever. Bellmo's attempt at providing an intelligent and useful guide to the implementation of a W2K server and network is no better than a Public Relations blurb for Microsoft. He relies on a number of unsupported assumptions about the superiority of W2K without actually discussing (or demonstrating) how this latest version from the Microsoft family is better than the previous one. He wastes valuable time praising the new "bells and whistles" W2K has to offer, when he should have spent more time and energy explaining (and showing) how W2k might make your LAN more reliable and less costly. This book, like so many others, is mostly just technical hype.

Product Description
As millions of network administrators around the world upgrade to Windows 2000 -- or install it initially -- Windows 2000 Administration For Dummies is sure to help them set up and maintain the best networking environment for their needs. Written in plain English, this indispensable resource for network administrators covers setting up Active Directory, managing users and printers, establishing security, and troubleshooting network problems.

From the Publisher
As millions of network administrators around the world upgrade to Windows 2000 - or install it initially - they'll rely on this plain-English guide for day-to-day network administration tasks.

Topics such as setting up Active Directory, managing users and printers, establishing security, and troubleshooting help readers set up and maintain the best networking environment for their needs.

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1/27/2010

Review of Active Directory for Dummies (Paperback)

Doing Active Directory right was important to my small technology company, so I bought more than ten books on Active Directory, Windows 2000 Server, and DNS. This Dummies book I took home and planned to skim through itfirst, thinking it would be a nice quick introduction.

The book gotmislaid, and I did not pick it up again until I was nicely up to speed withActive Directory and had done several installations. I read it anyway on aSaturday night as a quick review and was surprised at the clear style, niceorganization, and adequacy of its coverage of the subject matter.

If youhave just a day or two to get up to speed with this important new Microsofttechnology, this book will certainly do. System administrators andarchitects will want a more technical treatment.

Product Description
Active Directory, a fundamental component of Windows 2000, is revolutionizing the way people design and manage networks. Whether you are a savvy system administrator or are new to networking and information technology, Active Directory For Dummies helps you understand this wonderful new operating system technology.

This unpretentious resource presents the fundamentals of Active Directory and then moves right into planning, implementing, and managing it. Active Directory For Dummies offers a clear explanation of the program and a cataloging of its benefits and buzzwords. Explore the following topics in easy-to-understand language:

  • Prepare your environment for a shift to Active Directory.
  • Consider logical structure issues like planning the DNS namespace, designing the tree, and defining an organizational unit (OU) model.
  • Build a model of an Active Directory domain and create your first objects.
  • Migrate from an existing environment to an Active Directory environment.
  • Manage security, users, resources, and replication traffic within the Active Directory tree.
  • Understand how the Active Directory Services Interface works with other Microsoft technology.
Active Directory For Dummies also includes cool Web links for information on the program as well as a special section on troubleshooting common problems that may arise during installation and operation of Active Directory. The enclosed CD-ROM offers you 60-day test-drive versions of Visio Professional and Visio Enterprise as well as trial versions of Entevo DirectMigrate2000, EtherPeek 4.0, EtherHelp, TokenPeek, and TokenHelp.

From the Back Cover
Visio Professional Test Drive plus migration tools on CD-ROM

Plain-English explanations of trees, forests, and other Active Directory concepts

Harness the power of Active Directory for everything from migration to network management If you're an IT professional, Active Directory is probably the one feature of Windows 2000 you're most excited about. But because it's so different from NT, it's also a little scary. Relax! With this friendly guide at your side, you'll quickly get a handle on this powerful network management tool - and jumpstart your deployment of Windows 2000. all this on the bonus CD-ROM 60-day Test Drive version of Visio Professional and Visio Enterprise Trial versions of Entevo DirectMigrate2000, EtherPeek, 4.0, EtherHelp, TokenPeek, and TokenHelp Plus all original Visio files for figures in the book so that you don't have to create your Active Directory diagrams from scratch! PC with Pentium 90 or faster running Windows 95 or later; or NT 4 or later.

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1/21/2010

Review of Windows® 98 Secrets® (Paperback)

I found this Windows Secrets book just as helpful as its predecesors. I had used the Windows 3.1 Secrets years ago, in order to become more accuainted with the OS and learn some tricks that don't come welldocumented, and it certainly helped to do so.

However, if your goal isto become an EXPERT of Windows 98, i.e. learning the whereabouts of theRegistry, you might be disappointed.

One last thing: this book does NOTdeal with the Second Version of Windows 98. For example, it mentions tonsof times a VERY useful un-documented tool called TweakUI, which is notsupported by the Second Edition (sadly enough.)

Product Description
Windows 98, the ballyhooed new Microsoft operating system, is finally here and the best-selling Windows author duo ñ Brian Livingston and Davis Straub ñ mark this momentous software release with their seminal guide, Windows® 98 Secrets®. Livingston and Straub divulge undocumented features and time-saving shortcuts designed to maximize your Windows 98 experience.

Windows 98 Secrets explains how to connect directly to the Web using the Active Desktop, take advantage of dynamic communication advances, optimize new security options, tweak the registry, customize your desktop, and much more.

You can also sample 200 Windows 98 software programs hand-picked by Livingston and Straub on the Windows 98 Secrets bonus CD-ROM. There is also a bevy of handy resources packed onto the CD including FTP clients, HTML editors, database managers, automation tools, and Internet suites. Thanks to Livingston and Straub, the Windows 98 wizard has been exposed and with Windows 98 Secrets, you can reap the rewards.

From the Back Cover
Windows® 98 secrets® "If you buy only one Windows book this year, make it this one … [it] towers above the competition." - PC Magazine on Windows® 95 Secrets® Fully revised to uncover the latest features of Windows 98 Second Edition, Livingston and Straub's internationally acclaimed guide reveals dozens of expert techniques and timesaving shortcuts that will help you unlock the capabilities of Windows 98 - from customizing your desktop to editing the Registry. Realize the Full Potential of Windows 98

  • Customize your system to suit your unique style
  • Save time using the Active Desktop's direct connection to the Net
  • Optimize performance with shortcuts to programs, folders, printers, Web sites, and more
  • Download Web pages, sound, and images easily from the Internet
  • Make use of the latest communication advances in e-mail, networking, and more
  • Find out how to transfer files back and forth from your laptop to your desktop - without hassle
  • Exploit new security options
  • Manipulate the Registry - edit, backup, import, and export
Sample Livingston's and Straub's top 200 software picks for Windows 98
  • Automation tools
  • File managers and compression tools
  • Memory and system management tools
  • Virus protection software
  • Calendar and time management programs
  • Personal finance managers
  • Database managers
  • Graphics and text editing tools
  • Mail clients and utilities
  • Dial-up networking tools
  • Remote computing tools
  • FTP clients
  • Internet suites
  • Web browsing and authoring tools
  • HTML editors
  • Networking tools
Shareware programs are fully functional, free trial versions of copyrighted programs. If you like particular programs, register with their author for a nominal fee and receive licenses, enhanced versions, and technical support. Freeware programs are free, copyrighted games, applications, and utilities. You can copy them to as many PCs as you like-free-but they have no technical support.

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12/26/2009

Review of Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition Fast & Easy (Paperback)

I'm giving this book one star simply because there's no method for giving it less than one star.

This book is for the absolute beginner. I had hoped to find something a lot more informative than this. If you actually need a book of this caliber, doing anything major with multimedia is probably beyond your grasp.

Save your money and learn to use your F1 key.

Product Description
Get ready to discover your computerÂ's amazing multimedia capabilities. Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition Fast & Easy offers step-by-step instructions for using your computer as a television, DVD player, photo viewer, CD player, and more! By the time you finish, youÂ'll even cover multimedia file storage options and the Media Center remote control.

About the Author
Eric Grebler is an IT professional, author and certified trainer who has demystified the world of computers for thousands of people. Originally from Ottawa, he currently resides in Toronto, Canada. Eric has developed curriculum and resource material on a wide range of technical topics including desktop publishing, graphics, XML and operating systems. He is also the author of "Digital Performer 4 Ignite!" (Course Technology PTR, 1592003524), "Lindows Fast & Easy" (Premier Press, 1592000606) and "Windows XP Media Center Edition Fast & Easy" (Premier Press, 1592000835).

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12/05/2009

Review of MCTS: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory Configuration Study Guide: Exam 70-640 (Paperback)

Perfect book to get started on Microsoft certification track on Windows 2008. I've been reading this book for a month now and found it to be extremely valuable. It contains not just simple-to-understand explanation but how to do certain tasks and some reviews at the end of each chapter. Ebook from cd also is also useful for reading on computer. Excellent book.

Product Description
With Microsoft's release of Windows Server 2008 and a new generation of certification exams, IT administrators have more reason than ever to certify their expertise in the world's leading server software. Inside, find the full coverage you need to prepare for Exam 70-640: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory, Configuring, one of three specializations in the Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) certification track. You'll find full coverage of all exam objectives, practical exercises, real-world scenarios, challenging review questions, and more.

From the Back Cover
Prepare for the new Windows Server 2008 certifications

With Microsoft's release of Windows Server 2008 and a new generation of certification exams, IT administrators have more reason than ever to certify their expertise in the world's leading server software. Inside, find the full coverage you need to prepare for Exam 70-640: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory, Configuring, one of three specializations in the Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) certification track. Inside, you'll find:

  • 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 ENGINE:
Test you knowledge with advanced testing software. Includes chapter review questions and bonus exams.

ELECTRONIC FLASHCARDS:
Reinforce your understanding with flashcards that can run on your PC, Pocket PC, or Palm handheld.

AUDIO+ FROM PREPLOGIC:
Accelerate your training with audio instruction that's fully enhanced and optimized for the new generation of mobile devices.

Also on CD, you'll find the entire book in searchable and printable PDF. Study anywhere, anytime, and approach the exam with confidence.

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11/16/2009

Review of MCSE Windows 2000 Server for Dummies (with CD-ROM) (Paperback)

I used this book, along with a few of the other W2K Server study guides to get ready for the test. Don't be fooled, the new W2K exams are difficult, but I found this book very helpful to get information quickly - and the hundreds of review questions are worth the price alone.

Product Description
A Microsoft-certified expert reveals everything you need to know to pass this new "Core Four" MCSE exam, covering each exam objective with the real-world savvy required for exam success. The CD-ROM includes a customizable practice test engine; demos of popular test-prep software; and QuickLearn, a game that allows you to test your networking skills under time pressure.

From the Author
Curt Simmons, MCSE, MCT, makes his living as a technicaltrainer and writer.He is the author of MCSE Exchange Server 5.5 ForDummies, MCSE Windows 98 Ace It!, MCSE Study Tips For Dummies, andMCSE Proxy Server 2 Study Guide.

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Review of Master VISUALLY FrontPage 2002 [ILLUSTRATED] (Paperback)

This book is GREAT for newbies and AWFUL for the techie. It goes step by step visually on every task and I mean EVERY TASK. If you are familiar with Microsoft's suite of tools and menu item formats you will soon become bored. If you are a developer or web expert you'll find yourself flipping past pages and chapters to find what you want.
HOWEVER, if you are unfamiliar with the web and website development THIS IS THE BOOK FOR YOU. Completely failsafe, each step is spelled out, easy to understand and easy to follow.
With this book ANYONE can build a full featured nice looking website.

Product Description
From planning a site, to designing it, building it and publishing it, Master VISUALLY® FrontPage® 2002 teaches you Web design concepts and procedures visually. This two-color tome conveys information in concise introductory text and practical step-by-step instructions and screen shots. Hands-on tips offer additional information to help the reader with real-life problems, troubleshooting secrets, and additional advice.

From the Back Cover
"One picture is worth a thousand words." If you prefer instructions that show you rather than tell you, then this comprehensive reference is for you. Hundreds of succinctly captioned, step-by-step screen shots reveal how to accomplish over 250 FrontPage 2002 tasks, including:
  • Designing a Web page
  • Formatting text
  • Importing graphics
  • Using hyperlinks
  • Inserting video clips
  • Building a navigation structure
  • Creating a FrontPage task
  • Adding banner ads
  • Publishing your Web site
  • Understanding cascading style sheets
  • "Master It" tips answer questions and present shortcuts
  • High-resolution screen shots demonstrate each task
  • Succinct explanations walk you through step by step
  • Two-page lessons break big topics into bite-sized modules
Web development software on CD-ROM!
  • Fireworks 4 trial version
  • Paint Shop Pro 7 evaluation
  • WS FTP Pro trial version
  • Plus a fully searchable e-version of the book, and more!


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11/04/2009

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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10/30/2009

Review of Alan Simpson's Microsoft® Windows® Me Bible [ILLUSTRATED] (Paperback)

This is one of those books that should be packaged with every new computer running Win Me.If you are new to computers or if you feel you have never fully grasped Win 95,98,or NT, this book will help.In nearly 1000 pages the author takes you through every facet (of Win Me) the average PC owner needs to know.

Because of the size of the book, realize this is not a quickstart guide.This is a book to be used as a reference.When you want to tweak your Registry, pull this book out.

This book was written for the user who has little or no experience with Windows systems.More experienced users may find the book boring, and thus skim through the book missing vital information

Product Description
This comprehensive reference expertly guides both novice and expert Windows users through installation, configuration, and the new operating features of Windows Me including Internet Explorer, the Active Desktop, Outlook Express, MediaPad, Game Manager, and more!

You will soon master the new desktop design, icons, and layout while learning how to work efficiently with windows and applications. You'll also get valuable insight into printing, faxing, and email techniques with Outlook Express, as well as helpful advice on how to get up-and-running in no time with multimedia hardware and software. An introduction to Registry editing explains the basics of opening, viewing and printing. You will learn how to access the Internet, browse with Internet Explorer, use Windows Radio, and much, much more! All Windows users, from novice to veteran, will appreciate Alan Simpson's sensible advice and the Bible's comprehensive reference approach.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Alan Simpson's Microsoft® Windows® Me Bible [ILLUSTRATED] (Paperback)

Review of Master Windows 98 VISUALLY [ILLUSTRATED] (Paperback)

If you can read a cookbook or other simple instruction-type books, this is great. I learned so much about options that I didn't even know I had available. It is clear, concise and with all the illustrations, even acomplete novice can start to use it immediately. I've been able to organizemy files, manage disk space, customize my computer and customize my menuswith what I need. I'm no longer stuck with things I don't need orunderstand. This was one of the best purchases I ever made. It's incrediblyeasy to understand and instructions are super easy to follow - everythingis illustrated for you.



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10/26/2009

Review of Master Visually Windows XP (With CD-ROM) [ILLUSTRATED] (Paperback)

Here's an oddity.A computer book that's both comprehensive and easy to use.For anyone wanting to learn all about Windows XP without intimidation, look no further.The book is well organized, starting with elementary basics (such as general computer basics), then moving on to a wide range of topics:

Working with digital cameras
Setting up a home network
Web publishing
Creating/editing videos
Creating audio CDs
Customizing your computer
And much more.

Each task is explained in easy-to-read text and, of course, with visuals.Very helpful, but written primarily for beginners, NOT for XP or computer veterans.

CD-ROM contains an evaluation version of Paint Shop Pro, FreeAmp music player,
AbyssAudio Collection, and an e-version of the book.

621 pages

Product Description
Step-by-step instructions and hundred of screenshots provide you with ultimate topic coverage. Master VISUALLY Windows XP uses the VISUAL approach to cover new features of Windows XP including: the new interface, enhanced start menu, the My Pictures digital image organizer, the My Music digital music organizer; and Media Player 8, which plays video, DVD, and music.

From the Back Cover
"One picture is worth a thousand words."

If you prefer instructions that show you rather than tell you, then this comprehensive reference is for you. Hundreds of succinctly captioned, step-by-step screen shots reveal how to accomplish over 230 Windows XP tasks, including:

  • Using the new Windows interface
  • Setting up a home network
  • Working with digital cameras
  • Publishing files to the Web
  • Restoring your computer
  • Getting remote assistance
  • Creating and editing videos
  • Copying songs to your computer
  • Using Windows Messenger
  • Creating audio CDs
  • "Master It" tips answer questions and present shortcuts
  • High-resolution screen shots demonstrate each task
  • Succinct explanations walk you through step by step
  • Two-page lessons break big topics into bite-sized modules
Bonus software on CD-ROM!
  • Paint Shop Pro evaluation version
  • FreeAmp music player
  • AbyssAudio Collection and more
  • AbyssAudio Collection and more
  • Plus a fully searchable e-version of the book
System requirements: PC running Windows 9x/2000/Me/XP, Windows NT 4 or later. See the "What's on the CD-ROM" appendix for details and complete system requirements.

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