2008-07-29 Excellent Quick Ref and Newbie Starter

OK, I'm just starting out with Linux, although I have used Mac and Windows for many years. Ubuntu was my choice as it is so well supported and appears to be the least painful way of getting into Linux.

The book itself has a very good 'building block' approach to getting up and running quickly, then takes you through all manner of configuration options. Throughout, it is well laid out and task based, i.e. 'Mounting File Systems with the mount Command', so you can quickly find out how to do a specific task. It also contains troubleshooting sections and a useful guide for vi and other editors. The Index is very thorough, as is the Table of Contents, so finding what you are looking for is dead easy. I had one Ubuntu Server and a number of desktops up and running in under a day, thanks to this book, notwithstanding the fact that the server is command only (NO GUI!) and I wanted to install VMware Server!

In conclusion, I'd say it is one of the most comprehensive Zero to Hero guides out there on Ubuntu. It's name doesn't do it justice, it is much more than just a 'Toolbox', the words Quickstart and Compendium might do better, I would think.

Well done to the authors, it nailed all of my Ubuntu questions in one neat bundle!