Features
- Cover Type: Paperback with 912 pages
- Published by: Sams December 11, 2001
- Written in: English
- ISBN 10 Number: 0672322803
- ISBN 13 Number: 978-0672322808
-
Book Dimensions:
9.1 x 7.3 x 2.1 inches
- Weighs: 3.3 pounds
From Library Journal
These four guides approach
Microsoft's newest operating system (which may or may not be generating requests at your library) from different perspectives. TechTV focuses only on Windows XP Home Edition yet assumes some familiarity with previous Windows versions and is more appropriate for upgraders or those buying an additional PC than for first-time Windows users. A valuable addition to XP collections, it will supplement more basic guides. On the other hand, Teach Yourself, Norton's, and Unleashed clearly target intermediate to advanced users and include information on both XP Home and Professional editions. A self-study resource for patrons who quickly need to get up to speed with XP, Teach Yourself is a solid series addition, with helpful summaries, Q&As, quizzes, and exercises. Norton's is a characteristically thorough reference packed with tips for power users and resources for further information. Unleashed mostly covers Windows XP Professional and features useful appendixes on related topics such as TCP/IP, but it is less clear and less detailed than Norton's. All three will suit greater public libraries with a business and technical population. [For more reviews of XP titles, see Computer Media, LJ 11/1/01. Ed.]
Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Product Description
Windows XP Unleashed guides the advanced reader through nearly every Windows XP topic imaginable giving ideas and solutions practical to typical problems encountered by professionals. Examples of topics covered are:
- Installations, use, and maintenance;
- Performance tuning;
- Optimizing memory;
- Detailed registry info;
- Pushing hardware profiles to their limits;
- XP system tools;
- How to build network bridges between Dissimilar operating systems;
- Working with compatibility modes to enable older O/S to interact with XP;
- Device driver rollback;
- Automatic driver update;
- Ensuring perfect printing always;
- Maximizing XP for the internet, intranet, and security.
Reader ReviewsIn the world of outlandish marketing hype, the phrase "significant improvement" is bandied about like news years resolutions among pathological liars. However, in the case of Windows XP it is true. As a user of all previous versions of Windows, I have settled into a standard ritual of morning and afternoon reboots. However, with XP, that ritual is slowly being retired, as I can now go days without a reboot. There are many other substantial changes in XP, the most pronounced of which is the appearance of the desktop. This, in combination with the additional functionality, means that more effort is necessary if you are to use it efficiently. I had no trouble making the transition from Windows 95 through all other versions up to and including Windows 2000. However, when I purchased Windows XP, I felt the need to consult a reference manual, so I read this book. It was a wise decision. This is not a book for experts, the focus is on showing experienced users of GUI systems how the presentation style of XP is structured. With it, you can very quickly learn how to use it, what the differences are and if necessary, how to revert back to the classic view. The sections on how to configure the machine for activity on a network and how to troubleshoot the system to avoid failures and increase security should be read by all but expert users of XP. Microsoft has been justifiably bashed for the lax security of their software, but not all the blame is theirs. Users must spend the time configuring their systems so that at least the screen door is latched to restrict entry. If you have years of experience in the Windows environment, then you can probably use your instincts to learn the nuances of XP. All others should find a quality resource to consult, and this is one you can reach for with confidence.
Search for books at
