Book Review - Microsoft Windows Small Business Server 2003

So this week I finished reading the reference book "Microsoft Windows Small Business Server 2003", written by Charlie Russel, Sharon Crawford and Jason Gerend. I originally thought this was going to be a dry read, but I was impressed with how useful this was for someone like me. Not knowing how to use SBS 2003 it was refreshing to be able to step through each chapter as I was putting up a server for testing.

What I liked more is that the book explained in an informative yet simple manner things that people screw up when working with SBS 2003. I think I got more out of reading the side bar "Caution" and "Security" alerts than the actual pages.

Would I recommend this book? It would depend on the audience. If you know anything about SBS 2003, I think you will be BORED. However, if you are new to the game, its a great way to start the learning curve. I think a better name for this book would have been something like "Tips, Tricks and Traps on setting up SBS 2003 for the First Time". Ok... lame title... but you get the idea.

I think it will make a great reference book as I play with SBS 2003 some more. Definitely got my monies worth. Of course you have to weigh that accordingly; I find the gaining of knowledge to always be a worthwhile investment.

The book I started reading this week is called "Joel on Software: And on Diverse and Occasionally Related Matters That Will Prove of Interest to Software Developers, Designers, and Managers, and to Those Who, Whether by Good Fortune or Ill Luck, Work with Them in Some Capacity". (Yes what an amazingly long title. I think that's his point!) Very entertaining. Weird reading older articles that I explored online years ago. I'll post a review when I am done.