Beginning Ubuntu Linux: From Novice to Professional, Second Edition (Beginning from Novice to Professional)

  Author:    Keir Thomas
  ISBN:    1590598202
  Sales Rank:    146526
  Published:    2007-03-26
  Publisher:    Apress
  # Pages:    728
  Binding:    Paperback
  Avg. Rating:    5.0 based on 37 reviews
  Used Offers:    17 from $3.84
  Amazon Price:    $26.39
  (Data above last updated:  2008-11-16 05:46:27 EST)
  
  
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Beginning Ubuntu Linux: From Novice to Professional, Second Edition (Beginning from Novice to Professional)
  

Ive read lots of good books about Ubuntu and Linux in the past few months. This is the first great book.

— Arsgeek.com review of Beginning Ubuntu Linux, Second Edition

Keir Thomas walks you through the whole Ubuntu experience from beginning to end, comforting you with a calm voice when you might be feeling a bit lost ... He has done a great and thorough job.

— Free Software Magazine review of Beginning Ubuntu Linux, Second Edition


Winner of a Linux Journal Editor's Choice 2006 award (first edition)!

Beginning Ubuntu Linux, Second Edition updates the best-selling and award-winning first edition. Its the perfect guide for those switching to the worlds favorite Linux. The new edition has been thoroughly updated to cover technology introduced in the 6.10 release.

In the 680+ fully illustrated pages, you'll learn how to install Linux, set up your hardware and software, customize the desktop experience, browse the Web and send/receive e-mail, play back audio and video, edit digital images, use the OpenOffice.org office suite, and more.

Additionally, youll discover how to perform vital maintenance tasks, such as securing your computer against hackers, updating online, optimizing your system, installing and managing software, backing up, accessing your computer remotely, scheduling tasks, and more.

A whole third of the book is dedicated to Linux internals, including managing system processes and working at the command line. Two appendixes provide a glossary of Linux terms and an index of commands that can be used to control Ubuntu.

Beginning Ubuntu Linux, Second Edition is a complete, comprehensive, and unbiased guide to getting the most from Ubuntu.

DVD-ROM

Beginning Ubuntu Linux, Second Edition features a unique DVD-ROM companion disk containing the full Ubuntu installation that you can install on your computer. A full installation guide is provided in the book. Also included on the DVD-ROM are the Ubuntu sister projects, such as Kubuntu, Xubuntu, Edubuntu, and others. Both the long-term support and recent 6.10 releases of all projects are provided.

In Detail

Part 1: Introducing the World of Linux

Opening the book are several chapters providing a brief but complete history of Linux. Youll learn about the key figures in the Linux movement and discover why the politics behind free software are so important.

Part 2: Installing Ubuntu

Here youll find a fully illustrated guide to both installing Ubuntu on your computer and initially preparing the computer for Ubuntu. Detailed screenshots guide you through every step. In addition, theres a problem-solving chapter providing solutions for the most common issues.

Part 3: The No-Nonsense Getting Started Guide

The six chapters of Part 3 take you from zero to hero in as little time as possible. Youll learn whats what on the Ubuntu desktop and how to customize Ubuntu to suit your workflow. Youll be introduced to Linux replacements for your favorite Windows programs, and youll be introduced to the Linux file system, so you can start working straightaway.

Part 4: The Shell and Beyond

The five chapters in Part 4 introduce the heart of Linux: the command line. Youll be introduced to the BASH shell, and a full rundown of the Linux filesystem is provided. Youll learn how to work with text files. The closing chapters of this section teach pro-level tricks you can use at the command line to work more efficiently.

Part 5: Multimedia

Here youll learn how to set up Ubuntu to work with common audio and video files that you might have used under Windows or Macintosh. Then youll be introduced to Ubuntus audio and video playback software. Additionally, a complete guide to image editing and digital image management is provided.

Part 6: Office Tasks

The seven chapters in this section provide a comprehensive guide to the OpenOffice.org office suite. Youll learn how to undertake common tasks using the word processor, spreadsheet, presentations package, and database applications. Additionally, a complete guide to using Ubuntus e-mail and personal information manager is provided.

Part 7: Keeping your System Running

The six chapters in this part of the book pick up from Part 4 and expand on various system management/command-line skills. Youll learn how to perform vital maintenance tasks, such as managing users, or installing and removing software. Its in this part of the book that youll really learn your Linux stripes!

                  Reader Reviews 1 - 21 of 21                 
  
  
Review
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Reader Reviews Below Sorted by Newest First
09-20-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Beginning Ununtu Linux
Reviewer Permalink
I have been an enthusiastic Unbuntu user for almost a year and a half now and find that Beginning Ubuntu Linux to be the most comprehensive and informative book that I have read so far even though I am only read a third of it so far. I feel that book is a must for anyone using Ubuntu who wishes to get the most out it.

Ubuntu is a superior and easier system than any Windows system and Beginning Ubuntu Linux makes even easier. There is an adjustment coming form Windows or Mac and this book smooths it out considerably.

Read it and enjoy the best system available today.

(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-11-19 05:48:08 EST)
04-05-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Great beginners guide
Reviewer Permalink
I purchased this book to get a better understanding of how Linux, and especially Ubuntu, works - I got exactly that. This book offers a broad basic introduction and a fairly in-depth insight into not just Ubuntu, but also to Linux as a hole.

It describes the differences between Linux and windows, and gives some insight into why Linux does things a little different.

If you a looking for a beginners guide into Ubuntu, this will do the trick!

Jesper
Denmark
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-21 05:37:58 EST)
03-20-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Excellent for the uninitated, but weak for those who want more depth
Reviewer Permalink
The title says it all: "BEGINNING Ubuntu Linux". It really is about using Ubuntu Linux as a substitute for Microsoft Windows. There are advantages to doing so, namely cost. Ubuntu Linux is free.

Ubuntu has gained popularity because it is a straight-forward installation, a welcome relief to many people who have previously tried to install Linux or are simply accustomed to the sort of hand-holding insallation of Microsoft products (when nothing goes wrong).

Keir Thomas tries to cover a lot of territory and therein is the major weakness of the book. Linux, the operating system, by itself is a huge subject. Add to that sections on the BASH Shell, running various forms of multimedia, OpenOffice and a few other subjects and guess what? Nothing is covered in great depth. Usable, yes. But not great depth.

Also, Thomas has a slightly idiosyncratic style. This is particularly bothersome in chapters where he is dipping into more or less pure Linux, such as using the BASH Shell. The examples can occasionally be a bit hard to follow, though they all eventually do make sense.

Overall, for the inexperienced Linux user who is seeking a replacement for Microsoft Windows and Office, "Beginning Ubuntu Linux" is worthwhile. For the person seeking a more extensive knowledge of Linux, per se, there are better books available.

Jerry
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-06 10:47:23 EST)
02-08-08 5 0\1
(Hide Review...)  Beginning Ubuntu Linux
Reviewer Permalink
To start off this is a great book for beginners Much better 100 times than the Dummy book Great Reccommend, Good Reference & training book
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-03-21 10:23:18 EST)
01-15-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Learn Ubuntu the easy way
Reviewer Permalink
Ubuntu Linux is the easiest Linux distribution yet. I'm a computer programmer by trade and I have played with Linux in the past and felt it just wasn't ready for the mainstream public. Linux has come a long way in the last couple of years and Ubuntu proves that Linux IS a mature O/S that can be learned and loved by anyone.

Beginning Ubuntu Linux is one of the best books I have ever read about any Linux distribution. It introduces you to this foreign O/S called Linux. It helps you with the install and then it leads you on a journey of installing software that you will really use every day. The best part of all is you don't have to pay anyone for the use of the software this book shows you because it's almost all free. That's right I said free. The author has went to great lengths to find free software that the everyday Jane or Joe will use and then he takes it a step farther and gives you information about the software and he also provides links to other software that may be of use to you.

This book is so easy that even my wife (a non-technical person) could pick it up and start working with Ubuntu.

I wish Ubuntu and this book would have been around 2 or 3 years ago.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-02-08 16:42:51 EST)
01-12-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Good Book
Reviewer Permalink
I'd heard about Linux for years and had been wanting to use it. I didn't know where to start, though. My biggest concern was not damaging my current Windows XP configuration. I also wanted to know how I could use Linux on a daily basis. All these issues were addressed by this book. If you're an semi-experienced Windows user but know nothing about Linux, this book is for you. It is written in an easy to understand way that covers Linux's inception and installation. All in all, I would recommend this book.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-01-17 06:33:49 EST)
08-10-07 1 1\3
(Hide Review...)  Do Not Purchase
Reviewer Permalink
Book is a "second edition" that needs significant editing. References on the pages are not consistent with the text; screenshots use more than one computer so there is no consistency to assist the reader. The supplied DVD for Ubuntu 6.10 would not load so I had to download a copy for myself. If you're interested in Ubuntu, the Forums and online assistance are better resources. Book was returned to Amazon with essentially this same evaluation. They DID credit me for the return.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-01-12 18:32:38 EST)
07-31-07 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Content plus readability, AHHH!
Reviewer Permalink
Found this book to be immediately useful. Am a "newbie" to Ubuntu Linux and need all the help I can get. The book came through. It did it in less than 700 pages and there was sufficient ink on the pages. Easier to handle than the 900 page behemoth, Thank you, Apress.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-08-11 10:29:40 EST)
07-25-07 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  definitive guide for ubuntu linux
Reviewer Permalink
This book is the definitive guide for Ubuntu linux. A great manual that guides the user from installation to usage and development with simple and unambiguous language. It includes some very helpful figures.

There are special chapters on the Bash shell and command line editors as well as less traditional topics like managing multimedia and images. Even though I am running a newer version of Ubuntu (7.04) rather than the one described in the book (6.10), I have found very few differences. A book that is strongly recommended, especially to beginners.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-07-31 14:37:42 EST)
07-18-07 3 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Easy read, old info
Reviewer Permalink
This book is a great read. I found it warn and friendly. If you are new to Ubuntu and do not like tech books, this is for you. One thing though, it was out dated when I got it new. Ubuntu comes out every 6 months, so this book will always be behind unless the author starts using the beta to write the book, which would be the best idea. I would also have liked to see more on Kubunu, Edubuntu and Xubuntu as well. They are all part of the official Ubuntu family and one may have worked better of me as a reader.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-07-26 07:08:40 EST)
07-16-07 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Explaining Linux Ubuntu
Reviewer Permalink
This is a very comprehensive book about Ubuntu. It is especially informative if you are a beginner at using Linux. This book doesn't cover the latest Ubuntu release but the principles are the same. Highly recommended.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-07-18 22:16:00 EST)
07-04-07 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Great Ubuntu book
Reviewer Permalink
I am using ubuntu on an old laptop. I am pleased with the book an Ubuntu.
Provides me with what I need for a desktop guide. I am now looking at installing on a XP machine I have using the guidance provided.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-07-16 21:30:08 EST)
06-27-07 2 0\1
(Hide Review...)  Pedantic
Reviewer Permalink
Author spends too much time on the history of Linux. His writing style is both pedantic and stilted. He tries to cover too much information in one book and, in my opinion, doesn't cover any of it in an easy to read style.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-07-04 15:11:42 EST)
06-08-07 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Great Starter Book
Reviewer Permalink
This is my first Linux operating system (Ubuntu 7.04). This book is filled with helpful instructions and solutions. It explains things in plain (non-geek) language that is easy to understand. Even though this book was published for version 6.1 Almost all the info still applies. A much better book than Linux for Dummies. I highly recommend it!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-07-03 15:38:16 EST)
06-06-07 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  An Excelent Intro
Reviewer Permalink
The folks in Redmond have a market dominance, they think they don't have to try harder.......it showes.
I'm a welder, mechanic, Paint and Body Tech, I'm not afraid to get my hands dirty. Cutting code tho....... After spending more time maintaining my system than using it I finally gave Linux a try. Ubuntu is the most approachable Open Source OS yet. Kier's book goes a LONG way to help steady the nerves of your average newbie.

Clear, conciece, logical. My ONLY complaint is that you can't allways cookiecutter your code/applications. 19 times out of twenty "Beginning Ubuntu Linux" comes through really well. The last Few examples require about 15 min. of searching on some of the boards. Usually to explain some HeadSlapingly simple detail which got missed. In the author's defense, in each case the problem has arizen from the author's assumption that the reader has more than two brain cells firing.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-07-03 15:38:16 EST)
05-23-07 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Ubuntu book is terrific
Reviewer Permalink
This has to be one of the clearest books about Ubuntu and in Linux in general. It's certainly not too geeky, just a bit.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-07-03 15:38:16 EST)
05-14-07 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Easy to Read, Follow, and Execute
Reviewer Permalink
I had installed Slackware Linux 12 years ago. Wow Linux has come a long way. Back then I had to initiallize nearly every component in my computer individually and manually. With today's Ubuntu, it was all automatic.

I recommend this book to any first timer looking to run Linux. I haven't used any unix commands since college mainframe days (10 years). This book and this distribution of Linux require no previous unix command line knowledge.

I was up and running in no time. If one never looked at the file system, they would not know the difference from Windows, just different program names.

I did have a problem repartioning my drive with the latest version. So I had to flip the disc over and use the older (more tested) version, just as the book sugested.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-07-03 15:38:16 EST)
04-20-07 5 1\2
(Hide Review...)  An excellent introduction to the world of Linux for the newbie
Reviewer Permalink
Beginning Ubuntu Linux, Second Edition is an excellent tool for those who want to find out what all the hype is about Linux, but were always afraid to take the plunge. The author takes a practical approach to introducing the Linux environment to the new user. But keep in mind that this book is not limited to basic user tasks. It covers topics ranging from basic application use such as OpenOffice products to moderately advanced administrative tasks.

Being a long time network administrator, I have been limited to the Wintel environment. I have always been intrigued with the popularity of Linux and have always wanted to delve into it, but never wanted to take the dive into learning the whole new environment of Linux. This book made that plunge painless and quite enjoyable. I have since become a convert and I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in learning about Linux, but doesn't have the confidence or feels they don't have the time to learn it.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-07-03 15:38:16 EST)
04-08-07 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Ubuntu is great!
Reviewer Permalink
I have been using Ubuntu for about a year now and it is the best. I bought this book to learn more about it and how to manage it better. I am also hoping to get certified in Linux after reading this book. It truly is the easiest Linux to use.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-04-19 21:47:32 EST)
04-07-07 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Ubuntu is great!
Reviewer Permalink
I have been using Ubuntu for about a year now and it is the best. I bought this book to learn more about it and how to manage it better. I am also hoping to get certified in Linux after reading this book. It truly is the easiest Linux to use.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-04-11 09:54:09 EST)
03-08-07 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Good Linux but a user friendly:)
Reviewer Permalink
Great for beginners, good for the moderate users, and the experts may have this info.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-04-08 11:58:13 EST)
  
                  Reader Reviews 1 - 21 of 21                 
  
  
  
  
  
  

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