Windows XP for Dummies does a good job in its role as the flagship of the Dummies line, providing Windows novices with a guided introduction to Microsoft's latest and most feature-rich operating system for everyday computer users. Its treatment of computer, Windows, and Internet fundamentals is among the best on the market, and author Andy Rathbone has an appealing way of writing that's simultaneously fun and detail-rich. If you're a Windows novice--meaning you don't know how to undelete a file that's been sent to the Recycle Bin, or what a Web browser is, or what it means to "cut and paste" text--you will get a lot out of Rathbone's work.

Some aspects of this book could be better, such as the part of the networking chapter that calls for an Ethernet hub without noting that a switch, though possibly more expensive, would do the job better, without any additional hassle. The networking coverage also does an inadequate job of explaining how to share a cable modem or DSL connection among several computers. This is a serious shortcoming, and we're getting to the point in our evolution as a society of computer users at which we can assume that everyone knows what the "Cancel" button does and would rather read about the newer, more exciting things that Windows XP can do. Even the dummies aren't that dumb anymore.

But that said--and Rathbone does confine a lot of the really elementary stuff to a skinny introductory chapter--this book is a boon to people who aren't familiar with Windows XP or its immediate predecessors (including Windows 95, Windows 98, and Windows Me). It's also great for people who have learned a little about Windows on the job or from their kids, and want to expand on what they know. --David Wall

Topics covered: Microsoft Windows XP for people completely unfamiliar with the operating system and other recent versions of Windows. Coverage includes how to run programs, move and delete files, connect to the Internet, and use applications like electronic mail programs, Web browsers, and multimedia players.


Review
"...humorous and irreverent approach...user-friendly instructional tool that will guide even the most apprehensive user through a number of basic tasks..." (Personal Computer World, October 2002)


Review
"...humorous and irreverent approach...user-friendly instructional tool that will guide even the most apprehensive user through a number of basic tasks..." (Personal Computer World, October 2002)


Book Description
Windows XP is the most powerful of Microsoft’s Windows software – software that’s been updated many times since starting to breathe in January 1985. XP is short for Experience, but Microsoft calls it Windows XP to give it a more modern-day, "at-this-happening-moment" sound. Someday, sometime, something in Windows XP will eventually leave you scratching your head. No other program brings so many buttons, bars, and babble to the screen.

Windows XP For Dummies is for everyone who has a clue about what they want to do with their computers. Bypassing the technical hoopla, this friendly reference comes to the rescue when Windows XP stumps you or when you're feeling spunky and want to dig into deeper details of the ever-popular operating system. In either case, you can expect to pick up information on Finding the file you saved or downloaded yesterday Moving those little windows around on the screen with the mouse Making Windows XP run like your older versions of Windows Starting and closing programs by clicking the mouse button Making Windows XP work again when it’s misbehaving

Beginning with the basics, this book explains all the Windows XP stuff that everybody thinks they already know – until the program starts tossing them stumbling blocks. Windows XP For Dummies clears the way to Navigating the new Start menu and taskbar with ease Setting up a secure Internet connection Having a good time with digital photos, music, and videos Personalizing XP for each member of your family Fixing common problems using System Restore and online resources

Most people meet up with Windows XP by something other than choice. Their new computer probably came with a version already installed; maybe the workplace introduced a Windows XP update; or perhaps the latest version of their favorite program required Windows XP. Any in case, Windows XP For Dummies helps you adjust easily to the new Windows kid in town – and even enjoy his company!


Book Info
Covers the essentials that new and experienced Windows users need to become familiar with the latest release of the Windows operating system and to use its basic and brand new features. Softcover.


Hungry Minds
Windows XP for Dummies covers the essentials that new and experienced Windows users need to become familiar with the latest release of the Windows operating system and to use its basic and brand new features. This friendly guide covers the enhanced features of the new release including making your way around the new interface and the enhanced media and connectivity features.


From the Back Cover
Praise for the author of Windows For Dummies "This book feels your pain and prescribes a chuckle." —G. David Wallace, Business Week

"Informative, friendly, conversational, and slightly irreverent.... It could help save you time and ease your frustration level." —Suzanne A. Smith, San Diego Union-Tribune

"Written in a humorous style that gets the job done." —Don Crabb, Chicago Sun-Times Covers My Pictures, Media Player, home networking, and more! Connect with the world using e-mail and instant messages Get more done and have more fun with Windows XP How do you get a handle on all those cool new features in Windows XP? Relax! With bestselling computer-book author Andy Rathbone as your personal guide, you'll figure out how to tame those buttons and boxes, install software and a digital camera, navigate the new interface, and take advantage of those cool new multimedia features. Roll up your sleeves — it's time to have fun! Discover how to:Navigate the new Start menu and taskbar with easeHave fun with digital photos, music, and videos Set up a secureInternet connectionPersonalize XP for each family memberFix common problems usingSystem Restore and online help Get smart! www.dummies.comSign up for daily eTips at www.dummiesdaily.comChoose from among 33 different subject categoriesGet news you can use on everything from money to health to computers


About the Author
Andy Rathbone has more than 15 million For Dummies books in print, including Windows ME For Dummies and Upgrading & Fixing PCs For Dummies.

FROM OUR EDITORS

The Barnes & Noble Review
As Andy Rathbone puts it, "Windows XP leaps onto the screen with a snappy beat and overly excited videos. But how do you make the darn thing do something useful?" With Rathbone's Windows XP for Dummies, that's how. Rathbone's ...For Dummies books have civilized Windows for millions of users by now, and this one's no exception.

In classic ...For Dummies style, Rathbone eschews the complex stuff, starting with friendly, step-by-step explanations of "all the Windows XP stuff that everybody thinks that you already know." You'll learn what's new about XP Home Edition, master its new interface, then learn how to use the bushelful of applications that come with it -- especially its web and media apps. (And blessedly, Rathbone shows you how to turn off the Microsoft advertising that clutters XP.)

Best of all, you can turn to Windows XP for Dummies for solutions to many Windows XP problems -- from tiny, annoying problems like finding a missing taskbar to full-fledged system restore after XP goes completely bonkers. If you don't need this book, chances are you know someone who does. (Bill Camarda)

Bill Camarda is a consultant, writer, and web/multimedia content developer with nearly 20 years' experience in helping technology companies deploy and market advanced software, computing, and networking products and services. He served for nearly ten years as vice president of a New Jersey-based marketing company, where he supervised a wide range of graphics and web design projects. His 15 books include Special Edition Using Word 2000 and Upgrading & Fixing Networks For Dummies®, Second Edition.

FROM THE PUBLISHER