Introduction

ix

An explanation of how Linux works   While delving into the most arcane aspects of the Linux

kernel is not necessary, it is a good idea to know something about how Linux is put together. This

is particularly important if you have been working with other operating systems, as some of the

assumptions you currently hold about how computers work may not transfer from that operating

system to Linux.

An introductory command overview (with examples)   This is probably the most important thing

to look for in Linux documentation. The underlying design philosophy for Linux is that it's better

to use many small commands connected together in different ways than it is to have a few large

(and complex) commands that do the whole job themselves. Without examples that illustrate this

approach to doing things, you may find yourself intimidated by the sheer number of commands

available on your Red Hat Linux system.

Keep in mind that you do not have to memorize all of the available Linux commands. Different

techniques exist to help you find the specific command you need to accomplish a task. You need

only know the general way in which Linux functions, what you need to accomplish, and how to

access the tool that will give you the exact instructions you need to execute the command.

The Official Red Hat Linux Installation Guide is a excellent reference for helping you get your Red

Hat Linux system successfully installed and initially configured. The Official Red Hat Linux Getting

Started Guide covers the history of Linux, basic system commands, GNOME, KDE, RPM, and many

other fundamental concepts. You should start with these two books and use them to build the base of

your Red Hat Linux knowledge. Before long, more complicated concepts will begin to make sense

because you already grasp the general ideas.

Beyond reading Red Hat Linux manuals, several other excellent documentation resources are available

for little or no cost:

2.1.1. Introduction to Linux Websites

http://www.redhat.com   On the Red Hat website, you will find links to the Linux Documentation

Project (LDP), online versions of the Red Hat Linux manuals, FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions),

a database which can help you find a Linux Users Group near you, technical information in the Red

Hat Support Knowledge Base, and more.

http://www.linuxheadquarters.com   The Linux Headquarters website features easy to follow,

step by step guides for a variety of Linux tasks.

2.1.2. Introduction to Linux Newsgroups

You can participate in newsgroups by watching the discussions of others attempting to solve problems,

or by actively asking or answering questions. Experienced Linux users are known to be extremely

helpful when trying to assist new users with various Linux issues   especially if you are posing your

questions in the right venue. If you do not have access to a news reader application, you can access this

information via the web at http://www.deja.com. Dozens of Linux related newsgroups exist, including

the following:

linux.help   A great place to get help from fellow Linux users.

linux.redhat   This newsgroup primarily covers Red Hat Linux specific issues.

linux.redhat.install   Pose installation questions to this newsgroup or search it to see how others

solved similar problems.

linux.redhat.misc   Questions or requests for help that do not really fit into traditional categories

go here.

linux.redhat.rpm   A good place to go if you are having trouble using RPM to accomplish partic 

ular objectives.