[plug] Linux training for home newbies

[Bret Busby]

On Sun, 18 Sep 2005, Mr E_T wrote:

> 
> I have been asked to install linux on a computer owned by a linux newbie and have been
> asked if there is anywhere to learn linux.
>
> I have no idea and am wondering if anyone on this list knows here in Perth/Freemantle.
>
> -- 
>

There are a number of issues here.

The first, is exactly what is wanted to be learnt, of Linux? Is it just 
enough to be able to start it up, log in, run installed applications and 
shut it down, or is it how to administer a network or web server, 
configure a firewall, etc?

The second, is which distribution is the person going to be using?

It comes down to the principle embedded in my signature quote.

As an example, the person could undertake a RHCT certification course, 
if the distribution is to be Red Hat, and if that certification covers 
sufficient material. The person could undertake an LPI 101 course, if 
that is appropriate. Or, the person could purchase an appropriate book, 
such as Sobell, and work through that. And, I believe that books are 
available that cover the content of the certification courses, such as 
the LPI 101 certification.

I was going to suggest a Linux for Dummies book, but the Dummies books 
web site appears to include malicious code which causes crashes, so I 
would not recommend a Dummies book.

In visiting the ELX web site, I have just found that the Debian 
GNU/Linux 3.1 (Debian Sarge) Bible is now available. If the person is 
going to have Debian Sarge, that book may be useful. I am thinking 
about getting it for me. It apparently also comes with a Debian install 
CD, and a Knoppix CD. Amazon shows a number of results for "teach 
yourself linux" as the title search string, so there are many books 
available, which could be useful for a Linux learner.

--
Bret Busby
Armadale
West Australia
..............

"So once you do know what the question actually is,
  you'll know what the answer means."
- Deep Thought,
   Chapter 28 of
   "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy:
   A Trilogy In Four Parts",
   written by Douglas Adams,
   published by Pan Books, 1992

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