Windows 7

Windows 7: The Missing Manual

In early reviews, geeks raved about Windows 7. But if you’re an ordinary mortal, learning what this new system is all about will be challenging. Fear not: David Pogue’s Windows 7: The Missing Manual comes to the rescue. Like its predecessors, this book illuminates its subject with reader-friendly insight, plenty of wit, and hardnosed objectivity for beginners as well as veteran PC users.

Windows 7 fixes many of Vista’s most painful shortcomings. It’s speedier, has fewer intrusive and nagging screens, and is more compatible with peripherals. Plus, Windows 7 introduces a slew of new features, including better organization tools, easier WiFi connections and home networking setup, and even touchscreen computing for those lucky enough to own the latest hardware.

With this book, you’ll learn how to: Navigate the desktop, including the fast and powerful search function Take advantage of Window’s apps and gadgets, and tap into 40 free programs Breeze the Web with Internet Explorer 8, and learn the email, chat, and videoconferencing programs Record TV and radio, display photos, play music, and record any of these to DVD using the Media Center Use your printer, fax, laptop, tablet PC, or smartphone with Windows 7 Beef up your system and back up your files Collaborate and share documents and other files by setting up a workgroup network

• ISBN13: 9780596806392
• Condition: New
• Notes: BUY WITH CONFIDENCE, Over one million books sold! 98% Positive feedback. Compare our books, prices and service to the competition. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

Rating: (out of 31 reviews)

List Price: $ 39.99
Price: $ 23.99

Windows 7: The Missing Manual Reviews

Review by TanMan:
This is a review of Windows 7: The Missing Manual by Daivd Pogue. The book is written in Pogue’s clear, easy-to-read, and entertaining style. Through it all, he maintains his sense of humor. It covers most everyone from the most basic beginner to the the advanced super user, although the most sophisticated users won’t need much from this book. But even for them, it includes some handy pointers and reference material.

It provides a complete Windows 7 manual, with everything from how to install (Appendix A), to Windows basics (using Windows, file management and search, and setting your desktop) to finding and installing programs, to connecting to and using the Internet, to advanced features like joining a domain and VPN. And it covers everything else in between.

New features like Libraries and Jump Lists are covered nicely. He even describes the Library problems where you can’t add a network location to a Library without making that folder available off-line. He correctly points out that this copies that entire folder onto the local hard drive, so you probably don’t want to do this.

I especially liked that when features were missing from a particular version of Windows 7, Pogue points that out. He also points out when a feature is available only on certain versions. For example, Aero is not available in Windows 7 Starter Edition, and he points that out when talking about Aero.

The book provides special help for people transitioning from XP and Vista. When he can, Pogue compares things to the way they used to be in XP and/or Vista. For example, he explains how the Start menu and taskbar have changed from both earlier versions.

He also offers handy sidebars with tips and other related information throughout the book. For example, in the section that teaches you about faxing, he has a sidebar on how to create your own fax cover page.

One of my favorite features of the book are the extraordinarily useful keyboard shortcuts. He provides shortcuts for every situation that has one. In addition, he provides a full keyboard reference in Appendix D.

This is truly the Missing Manual for Windows 7. It is not, however, a reference manual. It’s designed to be read like a book. And it’s a really good book.

Review by Isaiah Dunham:
As a professional in the ever growing technical field i’m often asked “How can i keep up with technology?” And often times the answer is very blunt, “you really can’t.” With the release of Windows 7, I’ve been slowing promoting it to all of my clients, customers, co-workers and peers, but often i’m faced with the words “I don’t have time to learn it.”

I was graciously given the opportunity by O’reilly to review Windows 7: The Missing Manual. Most of the time while reading a book explaining anything technology, I become bored. It seems that often it is geared to the ‘I’m Just learning about technology’ individuals. After reading Windows 7: The Missing Manual, I was impressed to say the least. If I were to sum up Windows 7: The Missing Manual in a sentence i’d have to say, This book is one of the best instructive tutorial books I have ever read for any computer related product.

With their down to earth, yet at some points witty, instructive procedures, it was not only painless to read, but enjoyable. They tackle anything from switching screens, to folder options, to Taskbars. You name it, this book has touch based on it. To everyone that wants to start tackling Windows 7, whether computer savvy or not, I wouldn’t only suggest to read this, I would highly recommend.

So, to the People of O’reilly, thank you for finally making a book to help, not only, the advanced users, but also the lesser of the computer savvy.

Buy Windows 7: The Missing Manual now for only $ 23.99!

Windows 7 For Dummies

The perfect plain-English guide to the much-anticipated release of Windows 7 Windows For Dummies is the all-time bestselling guide to the Windows operating system. Windows 7 For Dummies answers all your questions about the interface adjustments and all the new tools in Windows 7. Whether you’re new to computers or just eager to start using the newest version of Windows, expert author Andy Rathbone will walk you step by step through the most common Windows 7 tasks, including managing files, applications, media, and Internet access. If you’ve never used Windows before, it shows you the things most books assume you already know, like how to navigate the interface, customize the desktop, and work with the file system. Then it helps you get comfortable using all aspects of Windows 7. Nearly ninety percent of the world’s PCs use the Windows operating system Covers basic management of applications, files, and data; creating and printing documents; setting up an Internet connection and e-mail account; and online security Explores using Windows to edit and manage audio, video, and photo files, and how to create CDs, DVDs, and playlists with Media Center Helps you tweak and customize Windows 7 to operate your way and set up user accounts, build a home network, and maintain your PC Provides troubleshooting advice, helps you find missing files and use the Help system, and explains common error messages Windows 7 For Dummies will have you up and running on the newest version of Windows quickly and easily.

• ISBN13: 9780470497432
• Condition: New
• Notes: BUY WITH CONFIDENCE, Over one million books sold! 98% Positive feedback. Compare our books, prices and service to the competition. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

Rating: (out of 15 reviews)

List Price: $ 24.99
Price: $ 9.55

Windows 7 For Dummies Reviews

Review by L. Abrams:
Windows 7 For Dummies Book + DVD bundle (For Dummies (Computer/Tech))

I bought the book at the same time I bought the upgrade to Windows 7. I could manage without it and figure everything for myself but I why should I. Using this book is like getting together with some of my computer maven friends for a talk.

Review by Donald Kinscherf:
This book is clearly written and concise. If you just browse through it you are informed to keep it like a dictionary and dont try to remember all said…the book is really for reference purposes… and it has some funny comments also

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Windows 7 For Dummies Book + DVD Bundle

A terrific value-a full-size book plus video demonstrations of key Windows 7 tasks Windows 7 is Microsoft’s much-anticipated new release of the operating system that powers nearly 90% of the world’s computers. This two-for-one package provides the step-by-step guidance that will get you up and running with all the exciting new features. This bundle includes the complete Windows 7 For Dummies book plus a DVD with two hours of video training. Featuring the expert advice you get in the book, the DVD shows you how to accomplish various Windows tasks and displays the screens you’ll see as you proceed. A two-for-one value – the full-size Windows 7 For Dummies book plus two hours of video training on DVD Windows 7 has new features, an interface with more graphical elements, better interactivitiy with other devices, and faster speed Whether you’re new to computers or just to Windows 7, this handy package provides a simple, easy-to-use guide plus video illustration to help you accomplish basic tasks in Windows Covers the things most books assume you already know, as well as how to work with files and programs, get things done online, and customize Windows 7 Shows you how to use movie, music, and photo management features, how to upgrade your system, and how to fix common problems you’ll encounter DVD shows you what you’ll see on the screen as you master each step This great book-and-DVD package will have

• ISBN13: 9780470523988
• Condition: New
• Notes: BUY WITH CONFIDENCE, Over one million books sold! 98% Positive feedback. Compare our books, prices and service to the competition. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

Rating: (out of 48 reviews)

List Price: $ 27.99
Price: $ 14.94

Windows 7 For Dummies Book + DVD Bundle Reviews

Review by Bonnie J. Jones:
This book has been a real help to me getting started with Windows 7. I’ve moved everthing that I had on a computer with Vista to this new computer with 7 and what a blessing. I am truly thankful to never have to do Vista again even with all the work to set up new in 7. I could have updated on the old computer, I guess, but decided why not start new. This book and two others–“Windows 7 Step by Step” and “Windows 7 plain & simple”–have been a great help in making the transition.

Review by MDCMAN:
This is a very good book if you want to learn all of the tricks of the new Windows 7 operating system. As a plus it comes with a DVD that will step you through some of the basics. As an experienced computer user I would recommend this book to anyone who has recently upgraded from XP to WIN7. It will help you navigate all of the new features.

Buy Windows 7 For Dummies Book + DVD Bundle now for only $ 14.94!

Windows 7 For Seniors For Dummies

Windows® 7 For Seniors for Dummies Learn to: Use the Windows 7 desktop and create your first documents Connect to the Internet and browse the Web View, edit, and print photos Keep in touch by e-mail and play games online Mark Justice Hinton Author of Digital Photography For Seniors For Dummies You can learn to use Windows, get online, and start doing things today! You don’t need a grandchild to teach you Windows 7 — with this friendly guide, you’ll be using the mouse, working with folders, hooking up a printer, and cruising the Internet in nothing flat. Learn to use all the gizmos that come with Windows 7, shop online, view a slideshow of your favorite photos, send e-mail to a friend, enjoy music, and more! Tour the desktop — learn to use menus, the Start menu button, files, and folders Do it — create notes and letters, connect a printer, download photos from your digital camera, and put music on a CD Have some fun — discover Solitaire and other built-in games, listen to music, and watch a movie Use the accessories — display Gadgets on your desktop, draw with Paint, and use the Calculator To keep or not — install additional programs you want and remove those you don’t

• ISBN13: 9780470509463
• Condition: New
• Notes: BUY WITH CONFIDENCE, Over one million books sold! 98% Positive feedback. Compare our books, prices and service to the competition. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

Rating: (out of 18 reviews)

List Price: $ 24.99
Price: $ 9.29

Windows 7 For Seniors For Dummies Reviews

Review by Bronx Alan:
I would recommend this book for those using a computer for the first time. It’s easy to read and understand..

Review by Burmesebandit:
I am 69. I am a dummie.This is my first computer. This book led me through step by step that I could understend.What I like most about it is that I can connect to Mr Mark Justice Hinton directly without going on a wild goose chase on the internet like the bad time I had and have with KODAK, STAPLES, DELL, ADOBE etc

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Windows 7 Inside Out

You’re beyond the basics, so now dive in and really put your PC to work! This supremely organized reference is packed with hundreds of timesaving solutions, troubleshooting tips, and workarounds. It’s all muscle and no fluff. Discover how the experts tackle Windows 7—and challenge yourself to new levels of mastery! Compare features and capabilities in each edition of Windows 7. Configure and customize your system with advanced setup options. Manage files, folders, and media libraries. Set up a wired or wireless network and manage shared resources. Administer accounts, passwords, and logons—and help control access to resources. Configure Internet Explorer® 8 settings and security zones. Master security essentials to help protect against viruses, worms, and spyware. Troubleshoot errors and fine-tune performance. Automate routine maintenance with scripts and other tools. CD includes: Fully searchable eBook Downloadable gadgets and other tools for customizing Windows 7 Insights direct from the product team on the official Windows 7 blog Links to the latest security updates and products, demos, blogs, and user communities

• ISBN13: 9780735626652
• Condition: USED – Very Good
• Notes: BUY WITH CONFIDENCE, Over one million books sold! 98% Positive feedback. Compare our books, prices and service to the competition. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

Rating: (out of 56 reviews)

List Price: $ 49.99
Price: $ 24.95

Windows 7 Inside Out Reviews

Review by Palavering:
I’ver read too many poorly written books by technical specialists who just don’t write very well. This book is not one of those. It is well-written, all-encompassing, and provides thorough, understandable, technical help for the novice and the geek alike. The reader can either use this book as a reference or he/she can read it from cover to cover. I did the latter–twice! I just couldn’t absorb all the cool and fantastic features in one reading. This is the first time since 1988 that I feel I really have a handle on my OS. If you are running Windows 7 (any version), you cannot do without this manual. It may appear absurd to say that Windows 7 Inside Out can be life-altering, but it can be just that! Geeks and neophytes ought to celebrate.

Review by David Ramthun:
As a technical professional that focuses on Microsoft products, I have read or have access to a number of technical books. Some focus on technical knowledge sharing, other focus on presentation of the information. It is rare that a book comes along that provides both. This book is very readable and not so technical that the new features get lost in terminology or filler paragraphs to create a larger book.

This book is one of those that not only provides excellent information on the new operating system, but makes an excellent reference guide for those times that you need to look up something. It is not a book you will recall everything, but the information is presented in such a way that it makes it easy to recall seeing it mentioned, which makes for quick search to find what you are looking for.

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Windows 7 All-in-One For Dummies

Eight references in one-fully revised to include all the new features and updates to Windows 7 As the #1 operating system in the world, Windows provides the platform upon which all essential computing activities occur. This much-anticiapted version of the popular operating system offers an improved user experience with an enhanced interface to allow for greater user control. This All-in-One reference is packed with valuable information from eight minibooks, making it the ultimate resource. You’ll discover the improved ways in which Windows 7 interacts with other devices, including mobile and home theater. Windows 7 boasts numerous exciting new features, and this reference is one-stop shopping for discovering them all! Eight minibooks cover Windows 7 basics, security, customizing, the Internet, searching and sharing, hardware, multimedia, Windows media center, and wired and wireless networking Addresses the new multi-touch feature that will allow you to control movement on the screen with your fingers With this comprehensive guide at your fingertips, you’ll quickly start taking advantages of all the exciting new features of Windows 7.

• ISBN13: 9780470487631
• Condition: New
• Notes: BUY WITH CONFIDENCE, Over one million books sold! 98% Positive feedback. Compare our books, prices and service to the competition. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

Rating: (out of 17 reviews)

List Price: $ 34.99
Price: $ 12.99

Windows 7 All-in-One For Dummies Reviews

Review by C. Braun:
I purchased this book even before I received Windows 7. I wanted a “heads up” on what I was geting into. Boy was I pleasantly surprised. Woody Leonhead spells it out and tells you exactly as it is. Even questions you wouldn’t think to ask. And, to top that off, he even has put in information that Microsoft wouldn’t tell you, e.g., if you download your pictures from either your camera or your memory stick, Windows 7 AUTOMATICALLY deletes your pictures from your camera or memory stick, whichever one you are using. So, photo people, BEWARE and find another way to keep your pictures. I’m sure there is a lot more very interesting items that Woody will let all of us know, only if you are willing to purchase his book. BTW, he used to work at Microsoft and is a now a BETA tester for them. So, you know you are getting all the “ins” and outs” of Windows. I am definitely recommending to everyone that they purchase this book. One of a kind that you will not find in any other book.

Review by William A. Schmitt:
This is a very enjoyable book to read and learn. It’s easy to read and easy to understand. Very informative. There’s also no shortage of info. You certainly get your money’s worth. It is a large book (over 800 pages) and Woody covers everything needed. I am totally satisfied with Woody Leonhard’s Windows 7 For Dummies.

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Windows 7 Plain & Simple

Get the fast facts that make learning Windows 7 plain and simple! This no-nonsense guide uses easy, numbered steps and concise, straightforward language to show the most expedient way to perform tasks and solve problems in Windows 7. Here’s what you’ll learn to do: Run programs, control gadgets, play games. Send e-mail, browse the Web, and share your files. Organize your digital media, including photos, music, and videos. Burn CDs and DVDs; make your own movies. Set up your printer and a simple home network. Manage security settings and perform easy tune-ups and fixes. Here’s how you’ll learn it: Jump in wherever you need answers. Easy-to-follow steps and screenshots show you exactly what to do. Handy tips teach you new techniques and shortcuts. Quick TRY THIS! exercises help you apply what you’ve learned right away.

• ISBN13: 9780735626669
• Condition: USED – Very Good
• Notes: BUY WITH CONFIDENCE, Over one million books sold! 98% Positive feedback. Compare our books, prices and service to the competition. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

Rating: (out of 18 reviews)

List Price: $ 21.99
Price: $ 11.20

Windows 7 Plain & Simple Reviews

Review by Dr. Terrence McGarty:
This is one of the “plain and simple” series which I have found useful, especially if one is somewhat experienced and looking for the hints on how to move up to the new products.

I have just started with Windows 7 and this manual was a good way to “jump start” the process. I had expected a Vista type set of problems with Windows 7 but everything went smoothly and this manual is a good helper. If you generally know what you want to do then this can help you solve problems quickly. I have used it for personalizing the look and feel, for backing up, getting a restoral disk and the like. I knew what I wanted from having done it on many past Os and it was readily and easily achieved.

The manual provides a good set of visual steps which are readily followable. The index is quite helpful and the coordination of the pictures with the numbering and the steps assists you as you go through the process.

What seems to be new is that one can use the Start command and insert the first few letters of the desired configuration screen and you then make the selection based upon what appears. This has two advantages. First the access is based on a common set of methods and second one gets to see what else is available.

This is not a manual for a system administrator. It is targeted at a reasonably experienced user transitioning from XP, and perhaps Vista, to Windows 7. You can determine what you would like to achieve and then through a hit and miss approach find the answer and see how it is done.

And, yes, the binding is of very poor quality. The other volumes I have used for transitioning to Office 2007 and they were of much better quality. This volume seems to crack after a short use.

Review by Jimbo:
Most of the material was useful, but organized loosely. The index was useful in finding the desired material. I found that the descriptions and graphics were very close to the Enterprise edition I have. My only problem with the book was when it was laid down to reference a particular procedure or feature, the soft cover binding tended to separate from the pages. I now have several small booklets. Maybe I should punch the pages and make a ring bound book.

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Windows 7 Step by Step (Step By Step (Microsoft))

Experience learning made easy—and quickly teach yourself the essentials of working with Windows 7. With STEP BY STEP, you set the pace—building and practicing the skills you need, just when you need them! Learn to manage windows and folders, sort and filter files, create an efficient Windows working environment, and safely access the Internet. You’ll learn how to install and manage software and hardware, create and manage homegroups, share content with other computers and computer users, and instantly locate content stored on your PC or network. You’ll also learn how to fine-tune your PC’s performance and resolve common problems. Plus, the supplied practice files give you a chance to hone your skills and put the book’s lessons to work.

• ISBN13: 9780735626676
• Condition: New
• Notes: BUY WITH CONFIDENCE, Over one million books sold! 98% Positive feedback. Compare our books, prices and service to the competition. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

Rating: (out of 26 reviews)

List Price: $ 24.99
Price: $ 13.99

Windows 7 Step by Step (Step By Step (Microsoft)) Reviews

Review by D. P. Willey:
Windows 7 Step by step is what I bought for my sister. She’s a novice PC user and wanted some help with using the newest Windows. Out of all the ones I read through at Borders this was the best for beginners and basics. If you are looking for a beginner book, probably a good choice but really will want to get a more advanced one to actually learn Windows 7. The more advanced one I like best is Windows 7: The Definitive Guide: The Essential Resource for Professionals and Power Users.

Review by Sigurdur Haraldsson:
I really liked Windows 7: Step by Step. It covers all the basics without getting too technical and has lots of explanatory pictures, which is what beginners benefit from right away. It’s easy to understand, the practises are good. I recommend this book for beginners, both of Windows 7 and computers in general.

Buy Windows 7 Step by Step (Step By Step (Microsoft)) now for only $ 13.99!

Windows 7 Secrets

Tips, tricks, treats, and secrets revealed on the latest operating system from Microsoft: Windows 7 You already know the ups and downs of Windows Vista-now it’s time to learn the ins and outs of Windows 7! Internationally recognized Windows experts, Microsoft insiders, and authors Paul Thurrott and Rafael Rivera cut through the hype to pull away the curtain and reveal useful information not found anywhere else. Regardless of your level of knowledge, you’ll discover little-known facts on how things work, what’s new and different, and how you can modify Windows 7 to meet your own specific needs. A witty, conversational tone tells you what you need to know to go from Windows user to Windows expert and doesn’t waste time with basic computer topics while point-by-point comparisons demonstrate the difference between Windows 7 features and functionality to those in Windows XP and Vista. Windows 7 is the exciting update to Microsoft’s operating system Authors are internationally known Windows experts and Microsoft insiders Exposes tips, tricks, and secrets on the new features and functionality of Windows 7 Reveals best practices for customizing the system to work for you Investigates the differences between Windows 7 and previous versions of Windows No need to whisper! Window 7 Secrets is the ultimate insider’s guide to Microsoft’s most exciting Windows version in years.

• ISBN13: 9780470508411
• Condition: New
• Notes: BUY WITH CONFIDENCE, Over one million books sold! 98% Positive feedback. Compare our books, prices and service to the competition. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

Rating: (out of 66 reviews)

List Price: $ 49.99
Price: $ 24.80

Windows 7 Secrets Reviews

Review by Gary T. Gafford:
I purchased this book due to my enjoyment of Paul Thurrott and Leo Laporte’s Windows Weekly podcast. The book covers virtually everything in Windows 7, and should be considered the ultimate resource/guide on the OS. This is a great tool for newcomers, as well as those who have been running Windows 7 since the beta release. Even amidst the more simple sections, such as installation, the authors manage to sneak in interesting tips and secrets that even IT Pro’s might not be aware of. Snarky and subtle comments laced throughout the text and below screenshots kept me smiling as I read through the chapters. Whether you’re someone who has never bothered to peer under an operating system’s hood, or a Windows power user just trying to figure out what features Microsoft has added to its latest operating system, this book is a great buy!

Review by Dave:
I am systems developer and have purchased hundreds of computer books in my life, and this one has the same problem that it seems to me all of these very large books of this type have: They are too large and heavy for the way they can be effectively used. This is most definitely not a reference book, but rather a well done general introduction to Windows 7. Due to the large number of screen captures in the book, it reads very very quickly and would be a nice book to flip through while lying in bed. But it’s tedious to hold.

As for the ‘secrets’… no, they aren’t secrets, though if you are new to Windows and 7 specifically, there may be things that you don’t know. Paul Thurrott certainly knows Windows, but this book feels just slightly dumbed-down for a general audience. I also get the feeling that the publisher required that there be ‘secrets’ at certain minimal intervals because some of them are almost embarassingly trivial and obvious.

If you are comfortable with Vista, this book will probably disappoint. If you are are using XP, then you may find it very useful.

But – don’t buy this book if you fall into the category of someone who has been working with Win 7 (as many people have since the free beta and RC) expecting to find much.

Buy Windows 7 Secrets now for only $ 24.80!

Windows 7 Resource Kit

In-depth and comprehensive, this RESOURCE KIT delivers the information you need to administer your Windows 7 system. You get authoritative technical guidance from those who know the technology best—Microsoft Most Valuable Professionals (MVPs) and the Windows 7 product team—along with essential scripts and resources. In addition, “Direct from the Source” sidebars offer deep insights and troubleshooting tips from the Windows 7 team. Get expert guidance on how to: Use Microsoft Deployment Toolkit best practices and tools. Plan user-state migration and test application compatibility. Exploit new Group Policy features, settings, and ADMX templates. Configure software updates and client-security technologies. Administer disks, file systems, file sharing, search, and Windows Internet Explorer® 8. Install and troubleshoot printers, devices, and services. Manage IPsec, IPv6, wireless, and remote connectivity. Use performance monitoring and diagnostic tools to manage desktop health. Resolve common startup, hardware, and networking issues. CD features: Sample VBScript scripts and Windows PowerShell™ scripts Troubleshooting tools Links to toolkits, documentation, and white papers Fully searchable eBook of this guide Complete eBook of INTRODUCING WINDOWS SERVER® 2008 Sample chapters from related Microsoft Press® books This official Microsoft Resource Kit delivers in-depth technical guidance from those who know the technology best—Microsoft MVPs and the Windows 7 team. Covers new features, deployment, administration, security, and other essential topics.

Windows 7 Keyboard Shortcuts Windows 7 Upgrade Paths:

• ISBN13: 9780735627000
• Condition: USED – Very Good
• Notes: BUY WITH CONFIDENCE, Over one million books sold! 98% Positive feedback. Compare our books, prices and service to the competition. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

Rating: (out of 6 reviews)

List Price: $ 69.99
Price: $ 40.00

Windows 7 Resource Kit Reviews

Review by Jase T. Wolfe:
For a first edition, this RSK shows great promise. Too much information for those who wish to only be power users of the OS, but for anyone who needs to master and administer Windows 7, you can’t go wrong with this behemoth. You would be hard pressed to not find an answer to general question or administrative need therein.

Continuing the trend set forth in prior Windows RSKs, this RSK introduces a lot of topics, but requires you to purchase additional books or read additional (and most of the time lengthy) TechNet material to fully make use of the technology or to completely understand what information they did present. A good example of this is PowerShell. The RSK and CD make heavy use of PowerShell scripts to automate tasks, but you do need to follow their How-To link if you actually want to learn the language. Another good example is the section on automated deployment. Although an excellent overview, most of the information you will need to completely perform the task you must get from one of the 7 links they provide you for resource materials.

I have also been somewhat surprised at the amount of information which is just missing, items that any administrator opting to customize the environment might need. As an example, if you’re looking to deploy Win7 using the WIM on the install DVD instead of capturing your own, you will probably want to configure the Default User profile – a topic you will find minimal information on beyond folder locations and establishing mandatory profiles. Something as simple as how to configure the default background image is nowhere to be found. There are also no references to OEM configurations, such as changing the stock background image displayed when at the logon screen. Countless web sites publicize the information, but not the RSK.

Yes, this RSK is well written and an invaluable addition to your administrative library, but it won’t be the last book on Windows 7 you buy/read.

Review by Lee Sergei:
This book is like an encyclopedia for Windows 7. I got this book, the administrators pocket consultant and the MCTS Windows 7 exam book to ramp up on Windows 7 which we will be introducing at work in the next few months. What I liked about this book is that it had material that was not easy to find on TechNet. This is a good book to keep at the office because of its size and depth. The deployment chapters and the chapter on direct access are both very useful.

Buy Windows 7 Resource Kit now for only $ 40.00!