Windows XP for Dummies does a good job in its role as the flagship of the Dummies line, providing Windows novices with a guided introduction to Microsoft's latest and most feature-rich operating system for everyday computer users. Its treatment of computer, Windows, and Internet fundamentals is among the best on the market, and author Andy Rathbone has an appealing way of writing that's simultaneously fun and detail-rich. If you're a Windows novice--meaning you don't know how to undelete a file that's been sent to the Recycle Bin, or what a Web browser is, or what it means to `cut and paste` text--you will get a lot out of Rathbone's work.
Some aspects of this book could be better, such as the part of the networking chapter that calls for an Ethernet hub without noting that a switch, though possibly more expensive, would do the job better, without any additional hassle. The networking coverage also does an inadequate job of explaining how to share a cable modem or DSL connection among several computers. This is a serious shortcoming, and we're getting to the point in our evolution as a society of computer users at which we can assume that everyone knows what the `Cancel` button does and would rather read about the newer, more exciting things that Windows XP can do. Even the dummies aren't that dumb anymore.
But that said--and Rathbone does confine a lot of the really elementary stuff to a skinny introductory chapter--this book is a boon to people who aren't familiar with Windows XP or its immediate predecessors (including Windows 95, Windows 98, and Windows Me). It's also great for people who have learned a little about Windows on the job or from their kids, and want to expand on what they know. --David Wall
Topics covered: Microsoft Windows XP for people completely unfamiliar with the operating system and other recent versions of Windows. Coverage includes how to run programs, move and delete files, connect to the Internet, and use applications like electronic mail programs, Web browsers, and multimedia players.
User review
windows XP
In 2003 received microsoft windows xp as gift when I purchased computer, however turning book pages started falling out from binding so recently purchased windows xp for dummies. A lot of good information I have not had before, still learning. Wm Smith
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I am a Dummy
Gave it to our neighbor, 81 years old, computer illiterate and he was delighted; however, have not heard back on what he thought.
In the past, I have been very pleased with `,,.` for DUMMIES books and would expect the same level of excellence from this one.
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Windows XP for Dummies
Purchased Windows XP for Dummies for teaching purchases. I bought it USED, and was concerned about the condition it was in. I was truly happy when I received it. The condition is like brand new. Very satisified customer.
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Windows XP for Dummies
What more can a novice ask. It's all explained the way I can understand what I'm doing. I've tried to understand Microsoftese, but they don't speak the same language as I and I was a mainframe programmer for 30 years and should understand, but don't. It's a Godsend. Love `,,for Dummies`.
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Sewing Freak
I have not read this book yet. I will use it as a reference book and will study some of it later.
