Press releases

"Windows XP in a Nutshell, Second Edition": All the Info You Need to Tap Into Windows XP's Capabilities

Press release: February 15, 2005

Sebastopol, CA--Windows XP is the operating system of choice for most power users because it is so technically sophisticated and complex, but the world's most widely used OS can also be downright confusing and headache-inducing. Windows XP in a Nutshell, Second Edition (Karp, O'Reilly, and Mott; O'Reilly, US $29.95), is the comprehensive but compact reference that systematically documents anything and everything serious users need to know about both Windows XP Home Edition and Windows XP Professional.

The ultimate resource for simplifying, troubleshooting, customizing, and unlocking hidden features in Windows XP, the new edition of Windows XP in a Nutshell contains more information--and more focused and useful information--about using Windows XP than any other book on the market. Part of the bestselling In a Nutshell series, the book was written by David A. Karp, author of the no-nonsense Windows Annoyances series and creator of the popular Annoyances.org web site, Troy Mott, and Tim O'Reilly, the publisher whose books have revolutionized computer publishing with their common-sense approach, depth of detail, and dedication to practical information.

Fully updated and expanded to cover Service Pack 2 (SP2), Windows XP in a Nutshell, Second Edition includes:

  • Everything readers need to know about Windows XP SP2, such as setting up a WiFi network; mastering Bluetooth features; plugging security holes and configuring the new Windows Firewall for maximum protection; tweaking new Internet Explorer features; and more.
  • Thorough information on virtually every command and utility available in Windows XP--from the prominent to the obscure--including both Windows-based and command prompt-based applications and accessories.
  • Detailed advice and documentation on system configuration, with extensive coverage of the Control Panel, Registry Editor, Microsoft Management Console, and the new Windows Security Center.
  • A comprehensive guide to every setting in every dialogue box, menu, and Properties sheet throughout Windows XP.
  • A handy reference to keyboard shortcuts, special symbols, common filename extensions, and background services.
  • Practical advice on how to build a wired or wireless home or SOHO network, the best ways to connect to the Internet (including WiFi), and keeping PCs and network safe from hackers, crackers, viruses, and more.
  • Hundreds of tips, gotchas, and clever ways to do familiar and not-so-familiar tasks.
  • A reference to using Windows Script Host (WSH), the system that lets XP users take advantage of VBScript, JavaScript, and even Perl to automate common tasks.

    • With its tested tips, step-by-step instruction, and expert advice, this must-have desktop reference delivers all the information serious users need to tap into all of Windows XP's capabilities.

    Praise for the first edition:

    "This book is an excellent, compact and comprehensive reference manual for a knowledgeable user of Windows...I plan to keep it next to the computer to use as the reference manual. If there is a more positive recommendation I am not aware of it."
    --J. William Marr, CCPCUG

    "This book is a masterful treatment of Windows XP, written in a direct and lively style, at a decent price. You will want to keep it at hand, as I do, since you can often find a screen capture in the book to see exactly what you need to do to perform a needed function."
    --Ed Laskowski, The Vista PC Journal

    "This book is an essential addition to any XP enthusiast's library...if you want to delve deep into Windows XP, take this book with you."
    --Nick Peers, PC Answers

    Further reviews can be found here.

    Additional Resources:

  • Chapter 8, "The Registry" is available online

  • More information about the book, including table of contents, index, author bios, and samples

  • A cover graphic in JPEG format

    • Windows XP in a Nutshell, Second Edition
    David A. Karp, Tim O'Reilly, and Troy Mott
    ISBN: 0-596-00900-3, 663 pages, $29.95 US, $43.95 CA
    order@oreilly.com
    1-800-998-9938; 1-707-827-7000

    About O’Reilly

    O’Reilly Media spreads the knowledge of innovators through its books, online services, magazines, and conferences. Since 1978, O’Reilly Media has been a chronicler and catalyst of cutting-edge development, homing in on the technology trends that really matter and spurring their adoption by amplifying “faint signals” from the alpha geeks who are creating the future. An active participant in the technology community, the company has a long history of advocacy, meme-making, and evangelism.

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