Computers

There are so many areas in computers, so many fields.. it is impossible to find one book that does everything. Throughout my years of learning computers, I think I have bought books that range from IDG’s Dummies series to Microsoft Expert level books. Each has its plusses and minuses to them.

Although no matter how many books you buy, every book will leave something out. You could own 50 books on networking, yet you will eventually find one other book that covers something in it the other 50 books didn’t have. The more hardware and software that comes out, the more uses the books, hardware and software apply to. And then, there are the bugs, revisions and new additions.

I have to say, more than anything, Scott Mueller’s Upgrading and Repairing Books have probably given me the best and most accurate information I heave needed. Each year, a new addition comes out with more information and a newer CD that also has older information on it. I would have to say every good technician has a copy of this handy. It comes into play more than once for an excellent reference. Even old additions. 

In this section, I have compiled a list of all the computer books I have. Some of them may get read through once, and some I have that may get used on a daily basis. The certification, O’Reilly Nutshell and pocket books are among those that I seem to refer to over and over more than any. I strongly endorse these!

The Dummies books? Well, ok, you don’t have to be a Dummy to read them. Once again, they are great in their own way. For those who want to delve in a new topic and have no clue what it is about, these books are written for beginners with day to day plain English descriptions. What better place to start than the very beginning.

No matter how many books you have, read or may buy.. they all have one thing in common: None of them will do you any good unless you actually understand what you are reading. Above and beyond else.. Personally, I have found that no book will teach you everything, as well as pure hands on experience wont teach you everything. In my mind, it takes a mixture of reading and learning mixed with experiences that makes the best techs.

One other thing I have learned: If you are not interested in what you want to learn, no book will make it easy for you.