Features
- Cover Type: Paperback with 432 pages
- Published by: For Dummies
- Edition: 2nd Edition October 8, 2004
- Written in: English
- ISBN 10 Number: 0764573268
- ISBN 13 Number: 978-0764573262
-
Book Dimensions:
9.1 x 7.3 x 1.1 inches
- Weighs: 1.5 pounds
Product Review
Windows XP for Dummies does a good job in its role as the flagship of the Dummies line, providing Windows novices with a guided introduction to
Microsoft's latest and most feature-rich operating system for everyday computer users. Its treatment of computer, Windows, and Internet basics is among the best on the market, and author Andy Rathbone has an appealing way of writing that's simultaneously fun and detail-rich. If you're a Windows novice--meaning you don't know how to undelete a file that's been sent to the Recycle Bin, or what a Web browser is, or what it means to "cut and paste" text--you will get a lot out of Rathbone's work.
Some aspects of this book could be better, such as the part of the networking chapter that calls for an Ethernet hub without noting that a switch, though possibly more expensive, would do the job better, without any additional hassle. The networking coverage also does an inadequate job of explaining how to share a cable modem or DSL connection among several computers. This is a serious shortcoming, and we're getting to the point in our evolution as a society of computer users at which we can assume that everyone knows what the "Cancel" button does and would rather read about the newer, more exciting things that Windows XP can do. Even the dummies aren't
that dumb anymore.
But that said--and Rathbone does confine a lot of the really elementary stuff to a skinny introductory chapter--this book is a boon to people who aren't familiar with Windows XP or its immediate predecessors (including Windows 95, Windows 98, and Windows Me). It's also great for people who have learned a little about Windows on the job or from their kids, and want to expand on what they know.
--David Wall Topics covered: Microsoft Windows XP for people completely unfamiliar with the operating system and other recent versions of Windows. Coverage includes how to run programs, move and delete files, connect to the Internet, and use applications like electronic mail programs, Web browsers, and multimedia players.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Product Review
“…the most well-known range of computer books…” (
Computer Active, January 2005)
“Readers will enjoy reading this bouncy, overwhelming accessible text….gives a peek at the next generation of Windows genius.” (
Good Book Guide, December 2004)
“…sure to be a huge seller…” (
Publishing News, July 2004)
Reader Reviews
This review is from: Windows XP for Dummies (Paperback)
A better title for this book would be "Any Windows for Dummies". I bought this book because I am new to XP. Some of the reviews including one from an "IT" person stated that there was good information on XP specifically. I found it to cover a lot of basic information on how to use Windows such as "start" button, icons, and control panel. Another example is the Networking chapter which in essence says "use the network wizard" and little else. It is well-written and methodical in its presentation of the subject but the subject matter is very basic. If you are an end-user that is comfortable with any version of Windows from 3.1 on, you will likely be unhappy with this book.
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