Red Hat Linux for Dummies (Paperback)

by Jon Hall (Author), Paul G. Sery (Author)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description
Though user-friendly interfaces such as GNOME and KDE have pushed Linux toward the mainstream, this open source operating system can still be daunting for first-time users. In this basic guide, two gurus take the mystery out of Red Hat Linux 6.1 with easy-to-understand advice on installation, maintenance, and Internet basics. Even better, the CD-ROMs include the latest Red Hat Linux distribution.

From the Publisher
Though user-friendly interfaces such as GNOME and KDE have pushed Linux toward the mainstream, this open source operating system can still be daunting for first-time users. In this basic guide, two gurus take the mystery out of Red Hat Linux 2.1 with easy-to-understand advice on installation, maintenance and internet basics. Even better the CD-ROMs include the latest Red Hat Linux distribution.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 374 pages
• Publisher: For Dummies; Bk&CD Rom edition (November 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0764506633
• ISBN-13: 978-0764506635
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 7.2 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.6 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 3.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (8 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #652,802 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

9 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Author clarifies the contents of this book, March 10, 2000

By	Paul Sery (Albuquerque, NM) - See all my reviews

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.

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Loading and using Red Hat Linux is easy with this book, August 14, 2000

By	Charles Ashbacher "([e-mail])" (Marion, Iowa United States([e-mail])) - See all my reviews (TOP 50 REVIEWER)

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.

13 of 16 people found the following review helpful:

1.0 out of 5 stars Whatever happened to quality control?, March 5, 2000

By A Customer

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.