Windows NT 4 0 Installation & Configuration Handbook

When Microsoft launched Windows 95 they set in train a massive hardware upgrade as users discovered that run in the MS lexicon does not mean the same thing as the definition in Webster or Oxford. Those with a penchant for conspiracy theories will, no doubt, have made up their respective minds that it was all a plot to make Windows users NT-ready. Ready availability of affordable Pentium processors and the falling cost of memory have made NT attractive to PC users who have networked older equipment with modern Pentium-equipped systems to share peripherals within the home or office. NT is a powerful system with many features and options. One cannot simply load it in the same, casual way as DOS. Planning is needed to determine the best configuration for a particular setup. Fine tuning is not just an optional activity for enthusiasts; it is mandatory if the system is to work effectively (or at all). This book is about installation and configuration and is, as the title says, a handbook. It is written for experienced users who want to appreciate the issues involved in the installation and configuration of NT as a server or on a workstation. It is divided into logical parts; installation, administration, adding hardware, managing and tuning sub-systems, networking and communications, configuring Internet services, and customising a system. Even though twelve authors have each written separate chapters, the style and language is consistent throughout. They have managed to write in a way that avoids technical jargon, but does not give the impression of talking down to their readers. Anyone wanting to put NT to serious use for a local network or comms server (BBS or Internet) may want more specific resources, but this is a good launching place. For some the Handbook may be all they need, but those who require more technical information will (unless already expert) benefit from the good foundation Jim Boyce and his team have provided. None of the authors is employed by MS, so there is no hesitation in mentioning OS/2 or using other dirty words. Configuring NT to live with other operating systems is explained along with installation over a previous version of NT or other existing operating system. Adding and modifying hardware is an ongoing task with most server setups; the authors deal specifically with multimedia devices (sound cards etc.), modems, and printers and fonts. Readers who have no experience of network or system administration will find the discussion of administration issues clear and helpful. An introductory chapter describes the fundamentals of system administration. Following chapters talk about how servers are administered and resources shared, controlling users, and the all-important registry maintenance. A section on networking and communications has chapters on optimising NT in various environments, including Novell and UNIX, a