Customer Reviews

Red Hat Linux for Dummies

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4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

Disclaimer: I am the co-author of this book

I would like to elaborate on the contents of this book.

The older non-graphical installation method is used because it works on more (i.e., older) computers than the new one. This is clearly stated in the introduction of the installation chapters. The book also states that if the newer system is used, the existing instructions can be used as a general guideline.

The GNOME desktop environment, which is the default Red Hat system, is described in detail in several chapters. KDE is not discussed because there is simply not enough room to do so.

Applixware Words was used to write this book and is the favorite of both authors. It offers you the opportunity to use a Linux computer as his your only workstation. Therefore, it was described in some detail. True, Staroffice - another great product - is offered by Red Hat but it is not included on the book's companion CDs. Since the reader must purchase or download either one it was not unreasonable to use Applixware.

I encourage readers to submit suggestions and errata to me. I will happily incorporate them into new printings. I also maintain a web site which includes errata and other information. I can not give the address here but can do so via e-mail. My intent is to provide readers with as much Linux value as possible.

Some time ago, I was forced to perform an emergency install of the Red Hat Linux package on a group of stand-alone PC's so that a class could be taught. With only the basic manual to guide me, it was a struggle to determine the appropriate configuration. While I did manage to complete the install in the allotted time, it would have been much less stressful if I had had this book as my guide. The first 108 pages contain some basic background on the origin of Linux and detailed, small step-by-step instructions on how to install it. The authors certainly made sure that all readers will be able to complete the installation process.
After the description of the installation, the explanations are of how to create an account and the basics of manipulating files and directories. The final sections cover how to use GNOME and the X window system, going online and where to get help with Linux problems. When discussing the use of the world wide web, the authors use skiing rather than surfing. You know what they mean, it just seems unusual to be using skiing rather than surfing. In keeping with the format of the series, these topics are presented at the very basic level, going through examples in a step-by-step manner.
Therefore, if you are a Linux novice, you will have no trouble locking and loading this very interesting and quite powerful alternative to the sometimes fragile primary alternative. The complete version of Red Hat Linux 6.1 is loaded on the two CD-ROMs that are included, so one purchase is all that is necessary.

Despite its title and the copy of Red Hat Linux 6.1 on CD-ROM, this book doesn't appear to be written for "dummies" (or beginners) at all. And it certainly doesn't discuss Red Hat Linux 6.1 at all. It seems more like a bad Red Hat Linux 5.2 book with a new cover and a couple of CDs thrown into the back.

For example, the three chapters on installation don't mention the new graphical installation program at all. The truly user-friendly Gnome desktop interface barely gets any coverage. The even friendlier KDE desktop barely even gets a mention, let alone a chapter. Much of the book focuses on the old Unix-like (and DOS-like) command prompt, which nobody except experienced Unix System Administrators from the 1970's uses anymore.

Both Gnome and KDE offer simple to learn and use Notepad style text editors. But this book fails to mention that. Instead focusing on the much antiquated vi editor, which doesn't even support the use of a mouse. I don't think they even mention the new GnoRPM package installer, which greatly simplifies program installation. The new, much simplified tools for installing a modem (Dialup Configuration tool), connecting to the Internet (RH PPP dialer and monitor), updater (Update Agent), and others are treated as non-existent.

From what I can see, this book is written for experienced Unix System Administrators, and nobody else. Perhaps it's for stupid Unix System Administrators, and that's what justifies the title. But if you're new to Linux, and looking the about Red Hat Linux 6.1 specifically, this book offers no help at all. Had I been given the option to give it 0 stars in my review, I would have.

Absolutely good for the beginners, but if you encounter the problem while you are installing the red hat linux, sorry, it didn't tell you how to fix it as this book assumes all the installation is smooth.

This title, as it suggests, is great for the complete newcomer to Red Hat Linux, and it focuses on those migrating from Windows operating systems. It teaches basic commands to navigate and very basically run a personal RH Linux machine.

DON'T buy this book looking for a resource that will show you how to administer a Linux machine. DON'T buy this book looking for a resource that will show you how to set up a Web/e-mail/FTP/SSH, etc. server.

DO buy this book if you have never really used a Linux machine, and are looking for an introduction. DO buy this book if you are sick of Windows and are looking around to see what other opportunities are available.

Once again, this book serves as an excellent resource for beginning Linux, but don't expect it to offer any more than that.

This book makes too many assumptions - i.e. that you want to run Linux alongside Windows on a partitioned HD and having a workstation alternative - which you may not.

I am interested in a developement environment. The appendix hardly has any references to "Apache" or "Web Server" - and only covers one kind of install.

They never address if you would like Linux as the only OS. Many of us have 100mhz clunkers that we're willig to wipe Win95/98 off of.

I'm interested in having a local web server to test CGI's write code, and more. The book falls short. In fact I had to go out the O'Reilly Running Linux.

I'm still getting frustrated trying to have Apache on the machine with the Gnome install. This book offers nothing in the way of setting up a web server (or very little to be exact!)

Fairly humorous and unthreatening introduction to Linux and network administration. Broad, yet thorough range of topics presented as `What to do' more than `How to do'. I haven't grasped it all yet, but I still resemble, I mean resent, the title!

As technical documentation, this book fails because no matter how carefully you follow the instructions, you can't get the task done. In the installation process, you don't even get to see all the screens they describe. Also, this book warns you against installing Linux side-by-side with Windows, then describes ONLY that scenario! Against the backdrop of such fundamental flaws, the approach of the Dummies series is about as cute as a rattlesnake.