Mastering Windows 2000 Server Book

Based on NT, Windows 2000 is nevertheless a different beast. The size of Mastering Windows 2000 Server reflects the many major new features--such as Active Directory, disk quotas, Distributed File System (Dfs) and Plug 'n' Play--as well as the many new management tools and interfaces you have to learn to administer it. The general approach is to explain what a feature is for, how it works and how to implement and administer it--complete with caveats where appropriate. For example, the new MMC (administration centre) could be a lot better, and quotas--we discover--apply to users, not directories. Mastering Windows 2000 Server is a fascinating read, helped by clear explanations and a logical topic order. Installation is followed by the new management tools and interfaces so you can find your way around and Active Directory follows a huge new chapter on DNS, which underlies it but was less important in NT. Even better, the book is on the included searchable CD. Interestingly, for appropriate subjects such as Active Directory, the authors provide different sections for newcomers to Win2000 and existing NT experts. This makes it easier for both groups to come to terms with major paradigm shifts. Microsoft should consider including Mastering Windows 2000 Server with every copy of the software. It's far more useful than the paper, local or online guides provided. In fact, buy it before you buy the software. --Steve PatientRead More