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Book Review: Practical Linux System Administration by Kenneth C. Hess

Practical Linux System Administration by Kenneth C. Hess is an outstanding resource for both aspiring and experienced Linux system administrators.

It offers a comprehensive and well-organized overview of managing and maintaining Linux systems. The book’s clarity and structure make it accessible even to those with limited Linux experience.

Strengths:

  • Comprehensive Coverage: The book thoroughly covers all aspects of Linux system administration, from basic to advanced topics. I was impressed by the breadth of topics covered, from user management to security and troubleshooting. It felt like a one-stop shop for everything I needed to learn.
  • Clear and Concise Writing: Kenneth uses clear language, making the book easy to understand for a wide range of readers. The author’s writing style is clear, concise, and easy to follow. Even complex concepts were broken down into manageable chunks with plenty of examples.
  • Practical Approach: Focusing on practical skills and real-world scenarios, the book equips readers with the necessary knowledge for effective Linux system management. I appreciated the book’s focus on real-world scenarios and practical skills. I was able to apply what I learned immediately, which helped me gain confidence in managing my own Linux systems.
  • Variety of Learning Resources: The illustrations, code examples, and hands-on exercises were a godsend. They provided a variety of ways to learn and solidify my understanding of the concepts.
  • Additional Resources: I found the online resources recommended by the author to be incredibly helpful. They provided further context and expanded on specific topics I wanted to delve deeper into.

Weaknesses:

  • Limited Focus on Advanced Topics: A deeper focus on advanced topics like virtualization and cloud computing would be beneficial.

Overall, Practical Linux System Administration is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning about Linux system administration. While it’s an excellent starting point for beginners and a good refresher for intermediate users, it might not delve deeply into some advanced topics.

Recommended for:

  • Aspiring Linux system administrators.
  • IT professionals wanting to learn Linux system administration.
  • Anyone interested in Linux system administration.

Not Recommended for:

  • Experienced Linux system administrators seeking in-depth coverage of specific advanced topics.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars