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"Windows Server 2003 in a Nutshell": A Detailed Quick Reference for Those in the Trenches

October 20, 2003

Sebastopol, CA--One might think that Windows Server administrators lead enviable lives, swooping in with larger-than-life superhero powers to set things aright when problems arise and basking in the glow of recognition for a job well done when things are running smoothly. But, in fact, while not exactly maligned by the individuals on the networks they support, Windows Server administrators are not precisely understood either. Keeping up with Microsoft's latest server software is challenging enough, but in addition there are no fewer than 600 common administrative tasks with which an administrator must contend. Even the most experienced among them has been known to call out for help from time to time. And help is here. Windows Server 2003 in a Nutshell (O'Reilly, US $39.95) by Mitch Tulloch covers everything developers and system administrators need to know about Microsoft's latest server release--Windows Server 2003.

"Windows Server 2003 in a Nutshell" delivers a lean and focused guide to the intricacies of Windows Server 2003 administration, ideal for those migrating from Windows 2000 or Windows NT. The book provides a comprehensive, A-Z compendium of administrative tasks. To-the-point chapters on migration highlight important new features to help orient readers with details about where Microsoft placed or reworded familiar options.

Readers who are familiar with Tulloch's previous book, "Windows 2000 Administration in a Nutshell" will quickly notice that this new book represents a complete overhaul of the earlier material. "'Windows Server 2003 in a Nutshell' has much easier to find information--there are only two alphabetic references, one for the GUI and one for the command-line," Tulloch explains. "The Task Map chapter lets you look up a task--troubleshooting startup issues, for instance--and then find topics in the two reference chapters that will help. This one-two approach to finding things will make it easier to navigate through the vast wonderland that is Windows Server 2003." According to Tulloch, this reference is ideal for administration and deployment, as well as for deeper issues such as planning, configuring, and troubleshooting.

"Windows Server 2003 in a Nutshell" includes:

  • Introductory chapters on transitioning from Windows NT and Windows 2000
  • A task map listing more than 600 common tasks and how to perform them
  • A GUI reference organized by major themes of Windows Server 2003 administration
  • An alphabetic reference of command-line administration tools and scripts
  • Coverage of all the latest Windows Server 2003 features, including Active Directory enhancements, such as Domain and Forest functional levels
  • Details on Windows Update, Emergency Management Services, shadow copies, offline files, and printer management features
  • Coverage of the Microsoft Management Console, as well as how to add and customize snap-ins for your environment
  • A guide to using Group Policy effectively to lock down and streamline permissions
  • This book is a no-fluff guide to administering the Windows Server 2003 operating system, written for those who are beyond the tutorial stage--primarily intermediate to advanced admins who are already familiar with either the Windows NT, Windows 2000 platform, or both. Small enough to sit handily on the desktop where it's needed, and condensed enough to be quick and easy to use, "Windows Server 2003 in a Nutshell" is the ideal quick desktop reference for those who work or plan to work closely with Microsoft's new platform.

    Additional Resources:

    Windows Server 2003 in a Nutshell
    Mitch Tulloch
    ISBN 0-596-00404-4, 647 pages, $39.95 US, $61.95 CA
    order@oreilly.com
    1-800-998-9938; 1-707-827-7000
    http://www.oreilly.com

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