Just before the holiday, I asked the fine folks at Microsoft Press to send me some of their Windows 7 books for me to read and review. Several days later, a huge box arrived with a half dozen books. Over the holidays I had the chance to read through two of them. Windows 7 Inside Out by Ed Bott, Carl Siechert and Craig Stinson and Plain & Simple Windows 7 by Jerry Joyce and Marianne Moon.

The first of these, Windows 7 Inside Out is a solid reference guide for IT Pros and Tech Enthusiasts alike. This book assumes you are familiar with the Windows 7 basics and dives right into the meat.

Topics covered include:

• Configure and customize your system with advanced setup options.
• Manage files, folders, and media libraries.
• Administer accounts, passwords, and logons—and help control access to resources.
• Troubleshoot errors and fine-tune performance. Monitoring system health and troubleshooting errors
• Advance Search techniques
• Deep dive into the event viewer
• Registry Editing
• Automating routine maintenance with scripts and other tools.

Included is a fully searchable eBook, “Before You Call Tech Support” reference guide, links to download gadgets, tools, blogs (like this one) and more…

If you are looking to tweet your Windows 7 system or help to support others, this book will more than cover your needs.

The second one, Plain & Simple is a great book for those IT Pros who were directly or indirectly involved with the purchase of a Windows 7 PC for someone else who is not PC savvy. (ie: You are now or have been the tech support line for Mom, Dad, Grandma, etc…) With huge photos and solid walkthroughs, Plain and Simple is a must have addition to that new PC purchase. The book covers the key areas to get you set up and running.

• Running programs and sending e-mail
• Browsing the Web and sharing your files.
• Working with digital media, including photos, music, and videos.
• Burning CDs and DVDs; make your own movies.
• Setting up printers and home groups
• Managing security settings and performing backups

The book offers easy-to-follow steps and screenshots show you exactly what to do, lots of tips to teach you new techniques and shortcuts and their TRY THIS! exercises to help you apply what you’ve learned right away. One thing for sure, this book will reduce the number of “how do I” calls you will receive from friends and family.

Even I learned a few cool new tips and tricks reading through these books. :)

For even more tips and tricks, check out our recently updated IT Pro At Home Tips and Tricks area on Springboard and look for more book reviews over the next few weeks.

More...

Posted By: z3r010
05 Jan 2010