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I was thinking the other day that there are a lot of people out there who use computers every day at their jobs, at home, or both. They may not want to become an MCSE but they are interested in improving their skills. These books are designed for those folks, as well as those who need to build a foundation of knowledge before they feel comfortable in pursuing further studies (perhaps leading to network or Windows certification.) Some of these books are used where I teach part time. If you have questions, I will be glad to try to help. If you have a lot of questions, please consider going here and contributing to the continued health and growth of this site.
By the way, the lowercase "pc" above is on purpose, because I plan to include books here for the Mac platform as well. Uppercase "PC" generally means personal computers running Windows with an Intel or AMD microprocessor.
Please email your own recommendations.
How Networks Work: Millenium Edition,Les Freed and Frank Dertler
If you are interested in learning the basics of how networks work, this is a great book. I used it to help me pass the CIW foundations exam.
New Perspectives on Computer Concepts 5th Edition-Comprehensive
I teach an introductory course using this book.
I would especially recommended this book to someone who is thinking of entering the Information Technology field, but is not sure exactly where their interest lies. This will introduce you to all the major job areas, and the chapter on careers explains exactly what it is IT people do. Or, if you are just interested in learning a little more about how things work, the book is great for you also!
My students especially endorse the hands-on labs; you know you are learning because you are doing it.
Course CBT: Microsoft Windows 98 for End-Users
I read somewhere recently that 85% of all PC's are still using Windows 98. If you are, then you should learn about MSCONFIG and Virtual Memory settings in order to speed up youir computer. My old 400 Mhz boots up in less than 2 minutes and shuts down in less than 30 seconds. Also learn how to customize your display options and most everything else you might want to know. This CBT (Computer Based Training) is used where I teach.
New Perspectives on Microsoft Windows 2000 for Power Users
I use this book in the Windows 2000 Pro course I teach.
Again, my students praise the use of hands-on exercises emphasizing what they have learned.
Windows 98 for Dummies,
by Andy Rathbone
The "dummies" series of books is well-known for their readibility. Something like 85% of all PC's are still running Windows 98, learn the tricks to keep it tuned.
Windows XP for Dummies,
by Andy Rathbone
The latest (and greatest?) for the home user, maximize your Windows eXPerience.
HTML Goodies,Joe Burns
Teach Yourself HTML 4 in 24 Hours,Les Freed and Frank Dertler
A lot of folks are wanting to learn how to do Web sites, either of the above books will get you going.
