The Accidental Administrator: Linux Server Step-by-Step Configuration Guide is packed with 44 easy-to-follow hands-on exercises plus numerous command examples and screen captures to help you build a working Linux server configuration from scratch. It's the most straight-forward approach to learning how to configure a CentOS/Red Hat/Fedora Linux server (the book is based on version 5.4 and 5.5), filled with practical tips and secrets learned from years of teaching, consulting, and administering Linux servers. There is no time wasted on boring theory.
The essentials are covered in chapters on installing, administering, user management, file systems and directory management, networking, package management, automated task scheduling, network services, Samba, NFS, disk quotas, mail servers, Web and FTP servers, desktop sharing, printing, security, routing, performance monitoring, management tools, and more.
Here's what you'll find:
- How to configure an Apache Web server, including virtual hosts
- How to configure file and printer sharing for Windows clients with Samba
- How to understand Linux file and directory permissions
All this information is presented in a straightforward style that you can understand and use right away. The idea is for you to be able to sit down with your Linux server and build a working configuration in a matter of minutes. Of course, some of the more advanced configs may take a little longer, but even so, you'll be able to "get it done" in a minimal amount of time!
Customer Reviews & Comments
I picked this book up not because I needed it for work, but because I was personally curious about the inner workings of Linux. When they say there is very little theory and mostly interactive examples, they mean it, and if that is how your brain functions you will feel right at home with this book. I feel much more confident in my Linux skills now and may be investigating further for my own personal gain.
The book takes you through a fresh Linux install, to understanding the filesystem and command line, to getting the system online and hosting your email and web site (and everything in between). You can even learn how to turn your Linux computer into a router and firewall! Now I can get rid of that router I have to restart once a day.
One part that stood out to me was the sections on getting your Linux machine to talk with the other machines in your house. I was able to connect to both my Mac and Windows boxes with ease, and can even control them straight from the Linux machine.
If you suddenly find yourself as an "Accidental Administrator" and need (or want!) to use Linux, I would definitely suggest picking up this book. The step-by-step instructions alone can get you set up with everything you need for a functioning network or server.
