ISBN:0672316099Amazon.com
When Linux or Unix gets adopted by computing groups that already have users working with a version of the Windows platform, administrators overseeing the network integration of the two operating systems look to Samba to make a connection. Sams Teach Yourself Samba in 24 Hours furnishes 24 one-hour essential lessons geared toward quickly learning Samba for administrators charged with the task of coupling Linux or Unix with Windows.
Authors Gerald Carter and Richard Sharpe dedicate most of this book to the processes of installing and configuring Samba, distinguishing between both Linux/Windows- and Unix/Windows-based systems. In particular, they discuss the mechanics of file sharing across the dual platforms and expertly outline the means necessary to remedy common problems. One remedy includes helping you identify which version of Samba you are running and where to look for the patch or bug fix you will need to resolve it. This includes assisting you with locating utilities like autoconf that automatically compile a system configuration file for you with common default settings.
The authors also address security and password issues, as well as peripheral support for server printers. If you are looking to get Linux or Unix dancing with Windows, you would do well to get a copy of Sams Teach Yourself Samba in 24 Hours. --Ryan Kuykendall/p>
Reviews From AMAZON.COM
Assistance without Help
The description of this book would be that it "offers all possible assistance short of any actual help".
I now have a great background as to why Samba Exists, why it is called Samba and a whole wealth of other trivial things.
The Samba Parameters are explained, but it is not made clear why one would use most of them and when.
I bought the book when I was trying to hook a Samba server between Linux and WinXP. WinXP seems to have been an afterthought in this book as it is included in some parts but not in others, but mostly it is not mentioned in any useful context.
The section on debugging is probably the best, and most needed if you try to install Samba according to this book, but then I already got a copy of that chapter free from a link on the Samba website.
My copy of this book is currently gathering dust on the floor and I am using FTP to transfer files.
Not recommended for Samba beginners, for whom I guess it was intended...
Readable and recommended.
Carter has written a readable book that covers Samba installation, step by step, while explaining the netbios and SMB protocols along the way. Each chapter has a "Q&A" session highlighting common questions and providing answers.
Most people will install Samba (including me), get it talking to Windows clients and then move on to something else. Carter continues, and even touches on getting Macs connected to Samba. The author also briefly covers installing and configuring SSL (encryption).
For individuals who don't have a lot of UNIX experience, I would say hands down, this is the best introductory book. This book is highly readable, aimed at the beginner.