On Sun, Feb 08, 2004 at 02:54:53AM +0000, Steve Hargreaves wrote: > Hi folks > > OK - I admit it. I've been working with computers for over 20 years (IBM > mainframe, mini, micro(or PC as they are called, now), WinNT networks etc. > and an Amiga developer (not using C) - but this damn Linux business is > driving me nuts. First time I've used an OS that you (literally) have to > build yourself, and has so many quirks it's untrue. > > So - in a bid to not flood this list with questions, I'm prepared to go out > there and try to become an expert myself, but despite my love of technology > and computers, I'm still something of a traditionalist when it comes to > reading - ie - I like paper. > > What would people recommend I start with (assume I'm a complete novice) that > will guide me through the basics of Linux (and more specifically, debian) > that I can get without trawling the web and spending several pound on printer > ink and paper to get (and if my local library can get hold of it - even > better). > > You never know - I may be another expert in the making. >
Debian is a distribution of GNU/Linux. GNU/Linux is a variant of UNIX. It is mostly POSIX compliant, IMHO. UNIX depends heavily on command line, and command line scripting. Start with Kernighan and Pike, The UNIX Programming Environment. Then, for more modern info., look at Hekman, Linux in a Nutshell and Newham & Rosenblatt, Learning the bash Shell. For SysAdmin stuff look at Nemeth et al., UNIX SYSTEM Administration Handbook. This gives lost of grubby detail for several variants of UNIX. O'Reilly has a program which, I think, gives books to local Linux Users Groups for distribution to group members who write or present reviews of their books. Some groups just give them away in raffles, but some guide them to people who really present reviews. Don't be narrow in your knowledge of Debian. It fits into a universe of good thought about OS design. -- Paul E Condon [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- To UNSUBSCRIBE, email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] with a subject of "unsubscribe". Trouble? Contact [EMAIL PROTECTED]
