Begun as a small-scale labour of love, Linux has blossomed into the world?s most versatile and flexible operating system. The reasons for its appeal are manifold: This open source OS allows numerous users to simultaneously work with multiple applications without experiencing any traffic problems, thus making it an ideal operating system for web servers. In addition, Linux is an extremely stable operating system that serves as a platform for an ever-growing number of quality applications. And not least, it?s free! You can download it for nothing from the Internet.

With Linux in easy steps, joining the Linux Revolution is as easy as one, two, three. Following its simple instructions, you can learn to install the operating system, configure the hardware, explore the desktop, and launch applications. This fully illustrated primer teaches you to climb the Linux directory tree, navigate with the File Manager, and much more. Its easy-to-understand tutorials guide you through the basics of the Open Office suite; creating and editing graphics; and even playing music and videos. Later chapters initiate you into advanced operations that can transform you into a SuperUser capable of refining the code yourself.

Linux in easy steps opens the door to a whole new world of digital possibilities!

Whether you want to get to grips with Windows, Photoshop or even the Internet, these easy-to-follow guides are the perfect companion for fast and productive learning.

This successful series is designed to save you time and guaranteed to give you value for money. Written in a jargon-free, easy-to-follow style with helpful graphics, the In Easy Steps books explain everything you need to know to get working on your computer - and more!

Each chapter takes you step-by-step through the functions and uses of a program. Every page is packed with visual guides so that what you see on your screen is exactly the same in the book - you simply can't go wrong!

You'll be amazed at what is actually achievable with each program. The series covers not just the basics to get you going, but it shows you the full potential of your software - things you never knew existed!

Whether you're a busy manager, a novice, a trainer or even a student, these books will improve your computing essentials quickly and easily!

Mike McGrath lives in North-West England, close to Manchester, with his wife, Linda, and their two sons, Andrew and David. Mike gained his extensive knowledge of computer languages while working as a developer contracting to companies around the world. His interests include coins of ancient Greece, camping trips and dining-out.

2008-08-28 Seriously misleading title

I bought this book for a colleague on the assumption that it would be a general introduction to Linux for beginners. Earlier reviews had erroneously suggested it was specific to the Suse distribution releases which would have been fine for us as that's what we usually use (with KDE desktop). Unfortunately, for our purposes, it turns out it is based on Ubuntu, this would not be a problem if it was made clear that this was the case and if it pointed out where it was being distribution or desktop environment specific.

If you are just starting with a Linux based system and have already chosen/installed Ubuntu then this is a fine introduction. If you haven't decided on a distribution and/or desktop or have already chosen something else, then half of this book will be at best irrelevant or just plain confusing. The problem for beginners is that they will not know which half is relevant and which isn't.

Regrettably it makes what is becoming a common assumption - that Linux=Ubuntu/Gnome, which is not the case and it is important to point out that one of the advantages of using Linux based systems is having a choice.

Rename it "Ubuntu in easy steps", explain that Ubuntu uses the Gnome desktop and that there are other choices and it earns a 5* rating, as it is otherwise well written, clear and concise.

Produce an equivalent version for Suse/Fedora/Mandriva etc focusing on KDE, Give it a truthful title and I'll have one of those thanks.