Overview
How Linux Works describes the inside of the Linux system for systems administrators, whether they maintain an extensive network in the office or one Linux box at home. Some books try to give you copy-and-paste instructions for how to deal with every single system issue that may arise, but How Linux Works actually shows you how the Linux system functions so that you can come up with your own solutions. After a guided tour of filesystems, the boot sequence, system management basics, and networking, author Brian Ward delves into open-ended topics such as development tools, custom kernels, and buying hardware, all from an administrator's point of view. With a mixture of background theory and real-world examples, this book shows both "how" to administer Linux, and "why" each particular technique works, so that you will know how to make Linux work for you.
Synopsis
"How Linux Works describes the inside of the Linux system for systems administrators, whether they maintain an extensive network in the office or one Linux box at home. Some books try to give you copy-and-paste instructions for how to deal with every single system issue that may arise, but "How Linux Works actually shows you how the Linux system functions so that you can come up with your own solutions. After a guided tour of filesystems, the boot sequence, system management basics, and networking, author Brian Ward delves into open-ended topics such as development tools, custom kernels, and buying hardware, all from an administrator's point of view. With a mixture of background theory and real-world examples, this book shows both "how" to administer Linux, and "why" each particular technique works, so that you will know how to make Linux work for you.
Editorials
From Barnes & Noble
The Barnes & Noble ReviewUnlike, say, Windows, Linux practically begs you to understand it. Nothing’s hidden, and -- let’s face it -- if you don’t understand something about the underpinnings, you’ll struggle. That’s why you should read How Linux Works.
This isn’t just a laundry list of features and commands, sprinkled with handwaving about how easy Linux is. It’s a primer on first principles. How the filesystem is organized (so you can actually find stuff). How Linux boots (so you can figure things out if there’s trouble). How to compile programs from source or build your own kernel (because one day you just might have to). What those essential system files do. What your user environment is. Seems like some folks were born knowing this stuff. If you weren’t, this book’s for you. Bill Camarda
Bill Camarda is a consultant, writer, and web/multimedia content developer. His 15 books include Special Edition Using Word 2003 and Upgrading & Fixing Networks for Dummies, Second Edition.