Beginning Ubuntu Linux: From Novice to Professional

Beginning Ubuntu Linux Third Edition was released in June 2008 and is written for the latest version of Ubuntu Linux 8.04. This book is up-to-date with the latest information you'll need in getting Ubuntu installed and configured on your computer. I would recommend this book as a must-read for anyone interested in installing Ubuntu. The book is accurate, well-written with illustrations that you can refer to as you read the step-by-step instructions. The authors have obviously invested a lot of time & testing in the writing of this book, the information is accurate and complete for the average user to get most out of their Ubuntu experience. The book is over 700 pages with 33 chapters divided into 8 parts: Part I---"Introducing the World of Linux" This sections gives the history of the GNU/Linux project. Part II---"Installing Ubuntu" Included here are pre-installation steps, installing, and troubleshooting installation problems. Here's where you're introduced to different options of installing, e.g. dual-booting with Windows, either on the same hard drive or a separate drive, or using an entire hard disk to install Ubuntu. Part III---"The No-Nonsense Getting Started Guide" Here's where the book really gets into the "meat" of getting your system up and running, as well as security, personalizing Ubuntu, a list of Ubuntu replacements for Window's programs, and managing files. Part IV---"The Shell and Beyond" This section gives an introduction to the BASH shell, understanding the Linux filesystem & user management, and working with text files. The BASH shell is similar to the old DOS command line, but much more powerful for working with files and managing your system. You may very rarely have to use the Shell, but it may prove valuable for system rescue or you may find it faster & easier to manage files. Part V---"Multimedia" If you listen to music, watch moves, or store digital photos, this section walks you through how to do this. Part VI---"Office Tasks" This section goes into some depth for how to use OpenOffice, a replacement for Window's Office Suite. Part VII---"Keeping Your System Running" Here you learn how to install & remove software(there are literally thousands of free software available in the Ubuntu repositories), more in-depth management of users, optimizing your system, backing up data, scheduling tasks, and accessing computers remotely. Part VIII---"Appendixes" This section has a glossary of Linux terms, BASH command index, what's on the included DVD, and how to get further help, such as the Ubuntu forum and the official Ubuntu documentation, which is quite extensive. "Beginning Ubuntu Linux Third Edition" will guide you through getting Ubuntu installed and configured, and will prove to be an indispensable resource that you can refer to when needed. I've been using Ubuntu for nearly 3 years, the First Edition of this book helped me immensely and I highly recommend the latest Third Edition for anyone wanting to explore an alternate operating system without worrying about viruses, spyware, and other malware.