BKWNWRKB.RVW  940413
 
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"The Windows for Workgroups Bible", Miastkowski/Lent, 1993, 0-201-62281-5,
U$26.95/C$34.95
 
Local Area Networks seem to be going in two directions at once.  On the one
hand, network operating systems are becoming more advanced as they try to add
features dealing with Wide Area Networking, and multiple protocols.  At the
same time, LAN packages are trying to get closer to "plug and play" ease for
the users.  Windows for Workgroups falls into this latter category, and this
book attempts to act as both a planning and administrative guide, as well as a
user reference.
 
Although I don't know that the "bible" status is deserved, by and large the
book works as intended.  Planners and administrators get an accurate assessment
of the advantages and disadvantages in comparison with other packages. 
Hardware requirements are discussed, as well as installation and configuration
of network cards.  Detailed technical issues, such as the specifics of cabling
or integration with compatible networks are only very briefly touched upon, but
these are aspects which can become very messy, indeed.
 
The users get details on customizing and sharing files, data and printers. 
There are also chapters on the use of mail and chat, as well as the calendar
and scheduling functions.  These are not simply reproductions of the manual. 
They are well written and presented, and heavily supported with tips.  These do
not generally give you any advanced functions, but explain certain operations
and limitations which would otherwise likely be highly frustrating to users.
 
Although advanced features such as security, wider networking and multi-media
are discussed, those who want to go beyond the basic networking features will
likely want additional resources.  Still, for most small LANs this should be a
very adequate background.
 
copyright Robert M. Slade, 1994   BKWNWRKB.RVW  940413

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