REVIEW: Using Microsoft Windows XP Professional - Bestseller Edition

M2 Best Books, Nov 7, 2002 by Jamie Ayres

M2 BEST BOOKS-(C)2000-2002 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD

Microsoft Windows XP has been around for some time now and there are a number of different books available to help you get the hang of its new and improved features. So why does this offering from Que claim to be 'the only Windows XP Pro book you need'?

Well, you could say that by sheer volume this tome is likely to hold the key to every query you could think of! At 1200-plus pages it really does make an awe inspiring sight on the desk. Fortunately the mass of information is kept in check by a handy 'at a glance' contents listing plus the usual in depth contents and Que-quality index listings. Add to this the page edge shading which allows the reader to easily find small sections of data and you've got the makings of an excellent reference guide. A list of FAQs is also included inside the front cover which gives the reader the feel that you can just pick up and run with this book.

After reading through a number of sections taken at random throughout the book I quickly came to the conclusion that the book is only the size it is because it is trying to be all books for all people. It starts off basic with general installation instructions and telling you how to use the interface (OK, the GUI is different from previous versions of Windows but not sufficiently enough for the advanced user to need instructions on using it!). Nearer the back of the book however the book moves into the realms of networking with Unix, Linux and DOS as well as other Windows machines.

Fortunately for the less advanced user the book doesn't attempt to go into great detail about the inner workings of Windows. It keeps it relatively simple and the instructions are clear and easy to follow. This does mean that the advanced user will probably be looking at a different book for the more technical descriptions, but for the rest of us this book will have it all. Tips boxes are kept short and sweet and other conventions used throughout genuinely help the flow of text and the reader's ability to absorb information rather than just adding fluff. Screen shots are kept to a minimum which helps to add impact and charts are well drawn and attractive.

The accompanying CD contains a number of lessons in QuickTime format as introduced by the book's authors, Bob and Brian. These are a handy addition and nowhere near as cheesy as I expected!

CONCLUSION: It may be far too large to have as a desk reference but this book would make a great addition to any regular XP Pro user's arsenal of information. Check out the rest of the shelf at the bookstore first if you want more advanced information.

Title: Using Microsoft Windows XP Professional - Bestseller Edition Author: Robert Cowart / Brian Knittel Published by: Que Corporation ISBN: 0-7897-2852-4 Price: GBP36.50 Reviewer: Jamie Ayres

This book was provided for review by Computer Manuals (http://www.computer-manuals.co.uk).