The Bottom Line
Yet another book on home networking that doesn't tell the whole story.
Pros
- Detailed instructions for Windows-based setups
- Discusses system administration and ongoing upkeep
Cons
- No coverage of Windows XP networking
- Very limited coverage of wireless home networking
- Limited coverage of non-Windows-based networks
Description
- Part 1 talks about hardware and alternative approaches to home networking.
- Part 2 covers software setup including connection sharing.
- Part 3 describes Windows Network Neighborhood, mapping drives, and installing network printers.
- Part 4 presents network maintenance topics such as viruses, email, downloads, and firewalls.
- Part 5 lists some fun things to do with a home network and how to keep the network safe for kids.
- Appendices contain additional information on network backups and a glossary.
Guide Review - "Home Networking for Dummies" by Kathy Ivens
Home networking books generally suffer from the same fatal flaw. Most home networkers today possess no prior knowledge, and the topic is far too involved to describe in a single readable volume. "Home Networking for Dummies" does an adequate job of introducing Windows-based home networks. However, it is missing Windows XP, home LAN gaming, wireless expandability, and too many other essential topics.
Though consistent with the Dummies series, the lighthearted tone taken by this book doesn't work well with the subject matter. Real-world analogies like "some NICs don't take the bus" fail predictably. The list of "fun things to do" with a home network stands out as particularly uninteresting.
