
Amazon.com
The cover of Windows XP All-in-One Desk Reference for Dummies boasts that it's "nine books in one." That's a stretch--it's really a book about Microsoft Windows XP for novices, with supplementary information about America Online and MSN--but cover claims aside, this book represents a good value for someone new to computing. Woody Leonhard--a respected Windows authority who writes with enough humor to keep things light but not so much as to obscure the facts--begins with how to use a mouse and works all the way through installing printers and setting up a little network in a home or small office. Granted, if you've found this page on the Internet you probably don't need Leonhard's "how-to-click" tutorial, but you may be shopping for someone unfamiliar with Windows. This book is good for such people.
While the nine separate indexes (one at the end of each included "book") will annoy you--the unified one at the back of this book is much easier to find and use--Leonhard's style will compensate. He's very good at explaining how to do what Windows XP was meant to do, up to a certain level. Want to add a music file to a Windows Media Player playlist? There's a procedure for that. Want to cancel AOL because you can't stand it? He explains how. He does not, however, provide detail on more complicated jobs like setting up a cable modem or dealing with the specific security risk posed by Universal Plug and Play. Overall, this is a nicely written, friendly book that covers Windows XP well, but to a limited depth. --David Wall
Topics covered: Microsoft Windows XP for home users, particularly novices. Windows XP fundamentals (like windows and the mouse pointer), customization, Internet tools (including Outlook Express and Internet Explorer), America Online (AOL), Microsoft Network (MSN), printers, small networks, and Internet connectivity are all addressed.
Book Description
* The ultimate reference for Windows users who have recently upgraded and are looking for a comprehensive guide to installing Windows XP, setting it up, and taking advantage of all of its new features, in addition to anyone who is downloading the new service pack (SP2) or purchasing a new PC
* The nine minibooks include Windows XP basics, customization, the Internet, Internet Explorer, America Online, Microsoft network, hardware, multimedia, and home networking
* This edition covers new security features (including Windows Firewall), the new wireless user interface, Windows Media Player 9, Windows Movie Maker 2, and changes to Internet Explorer
* Includes an entirely new chapter on Windows Media Center
* The new edition also boasts a full chapter devoted to broadband Internet connections, coverage of new of MSN and AOL versions, and expanded coverage of wireless networking and wireless security
Download Description
The ultimate reference for Windows users who have recently upgraded and are looking for a comprehensive guide to installing Windows XP, setting it up, and taking advantage of all of its new features, in addition to anyone who is downloading the new service pack (SP2) or purchasing a new PC
* The nine minibooks include Windows XP basics, customization, the Internet, Internet Explorer, America Online, Microsoft network, hardware, multimedia, and home networking
* This edition covers new security features (including Windows Firewall), the new wireless user interface, Windows Media Player 9, Windows Movie Maker 2, and changes to Internet Explorer
* Includes an entirely new chapter on Windows Media Center
* The new edition also boasts a full chapter devoted to broadband Internet connections, coverage of new of MSN and AOL versions, and expanded coverage of wireless networking and wireless security
Book Info
Covers absolutely everything you need to know about Windows XP. Packed with exclusive troubleshooting tips. Softcover.
From the Back Cover
9 books in 1your key to Windows XP success!
Your one-stop guide to Windows XP, fully updated for Service Pack 2 enhancements
Whether you want to set up a reliable network in your home office or you just want to beat the computer at Solitaire, here's your guide! In one of these handy minibooks, you'll find exactly what you need to know about basic Windows XP operation, getting around online, applying new security procedures, enjoying multimedia, and more.
Discover how to Use new Service Pack 2 security tools Personalize your desktop Set up Web pages and use e-mail Work with digital cameras and camcorders Choose and set up a Media Center PC
About the Author
Woody Leonhard is the author of Windows XP Timesaving Techniques For Dummies. He's won more Computer Press Awards than any other writer, and his newsletters reach 500,000 subscribers.