With the release of Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2), Microsoft latest and most reliable corporate desktop operating system now provides better protection against viruses, worms, and malicious hackers. SP2 includes Windows Firewall, Pop-up Blocker for Internet Explorer, and the new Windows Security Center. But it still comes without a single page of printed instructions. This superbly written guide fills the gap. Coauthored by David Pogue, New York Times technology columnist and Missing Manuals creator, Windows XP Pro: The Missing Manual uses wit, technical insight, and scrupulous objectivity to light the way for first-time and intermediate network and standalone PC users. In fact, this jargon-free book explains XP's features so clearly revealing which work well and which don't that it should have been in the box in the first place. The book reveals which features work well and which don't, such as the Remote Desktop software that enables people to connect to the office from home, the encryption file system that protects sensitive information, and the Windows Messenger that enables real-time text, voice and video communication. Contents include:

• Getting started. The book's early chapters cover using menus, finding lost files, reducing window clutter, and taming the new, multi-column Start menu.

• Mastering the network. Special chapters help you navigate the corporate network, dial in from the road, and even set up your own small-office (peer-to-peer) network, step by step.

• Understanding security. User accounts, file encryption, and the NTFS file system keep your private files private, while still offering network access to coworkers you specify.

• Flying the Net. This book demystifies Outlook Express 6 for email, Internet Explorer 6 for Web browsing, and the new Windows Messenger for voice, chat, and video conferencing.

Windows XP Pro: The Missing Manual isn't for system administrators or OS theory geeks; it's for the novice or budding power user who wants to master the machine and get down to work. Yet, anyone who uses XP Pro (including hardcore techies) will find this new system much easier-- and more fun--to digest with this new Missing Manual.

Amazon.com® Reader Reviews (Ranked by Helpfulness)

Average Amazon.com® Rating:  Based on 18 Ratings

Average User - 2005-09-13
Reviewer Rating:
After a few minutes of reading and in front of the PC, I was able to understand many of the new features in XP Pro. This book should have been included with the software. I considered myself as a fairly competent PC user, but the book unlocked all the items that you cannot find using the "Help" function in XP Pro. At least it seems that way to me! I highly recommend this purchase for ALL PC users.

PC program manual - 2010-02-03
Reviewer Rating:
The book puts the terms of instruction in a simplified format with side notes that builds better understanding of the situation you are addressing. This is the manual that should be included with the purchase of a new PC with this operating system.

XP manual - 2009-04-20
Reviewer Rating:
Excellent, excellent, excellent! I use this constantly. First place I go now for any XP problems/installations. How did I ever manage without it?

Great Book - 2008-04-15
Reviewer Rating:
I got a new computer with Vista. What a mess, never could get anything done with it. Went back to XP and got the book "Windows XP Pro The Missing Manual" This is definately one great book. If you want to learn and know all about Windows XP this is the book. Like the title says it should have been in the box. Maybe some day Microsoft will get with it and include good manuals in there products.

met my expectations - 2007-09-04
Reviewer Rating:
Worth the money. For the casual user seeking to become a power user. You can find all this info on the net but not this concise and well laid out. Anything not in this book you can find on the net as well.

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