Linux Bible, 2005 Edition

* Detailed installation instructions and step-by-step descriptions of key desktop and server components help new users get up and running immediately
* Descriptions of the various distributions from people in the Linux community help users zero in on the best Linux for their needs
* The perfect migration guide for Windows and Macintosh desktop users who want to switch to Linux, as well as for systems administrators who want to set up secure, fully functioning server systems
* Covers Linux embedded systems, firewalls, and routers plus desktops and servers
* Includes Fedora Core 3, Debian Linux, SUSE Linux, Knoppix, Gentoo Linux, Slackware Linux, Mandrake Linux, Damn Small Linux, and a Linux firewall and router on DVD

User review
Linux Bible
As someone new to the Linux operating system I was looking for a textbook that was thorough but easy to understand and use. This book has it all and then some. I am enjoying following the exercises in the book and checking out the Linux distros on the DVD.This is a must have if you are considering switching to Linux.

User review
Linux Bible Nearly Useless
I am very disappointed with the Linux (2008 Edition) Bible. It is basically a fluff volume (800+ pages of fluff) that provides little help in trying to use Linux. Best comparison I can think of is: You buy your first car, and with no practical knowledge of cars, have a flat tire on the way home. You look in the owners manual for instructions on changing the flat. The manual says, `there is a jack and lug wrench in the car for changing tires.` Nothing more. This example relates to many sections of the book. Take, again for example, `Kudzu Hardware Detection` on page 286. This section states that Kudzu detects your system hardware each time you start Fedora. Okay, so what if it doesn't? Not a word on how to make it run, how to make it detect hardware, or what to do if it fails to detect. This lack of real information is repeated throughout the book. A (very) brief introduction to topics but nothing that is remotely useful. I feel I really wasted my money.

User review
good to start and know about flavors - I recommend
A very good start on Linux allows a general understanding of diverse options distributions. Well written. Thanks.

User review
Linux Bible 2008
The book is very informative for Linux starters. Teaches you from where to get the right Linux software that suits your application, software installation and the Linux basics.

User review
Inexpensive
Very inexpensive. It would have been better
if it focused on one of two distributions with
more insights.