Home Networking Bible (Bible (Wiley))

Description

I consider myself the average home computer user, so I can read technical material when there is need, but don't do this for living. I can understand 90% of help instructions, but won't get to the level of fixing Windows registry entries. I wanted to build my home network, so I was expecting something to complement what I could find on Windows menus. I am also learning Linux and wanted to network all my home computers together. The book review said it was beginner to intermediate level, and it covered Linux as well, so it looked like the perfect fit. I was able to get this book used, like new, for $5, so there was virtually nothing to lose. However, it was an 'almost' complete waste of time. This book just walks you through Windows menus, with some touch on Mac, and 'see your distro manuals' in Linux. I would say it is good for someone who is completely new to computers, but then I wouldn't want to create a network myself if I were that new. Besides, there is nothing in this book that you can't get either through the Internet, or regular help menus. The only reason I am giving it 1 star is that it covers some network cabling principles, and some TCP/IP basics. Both areas are timeless, i.e.; would take some time to be as outdated as the rest of the book. One good learning for me; good books will never sell at $5.