LPI Linux Certification in a Nutshell, 2nd Edition

The book is organised around the LPI's published standards for two Level 1 exams (exams 101, which deals with key commands and file-system concepts, and 102, which places more emphasis on hardware, networking and shell scripting). The organisation works well even if you're not specifically preparing for either exam.

LPI Linux Certification in a Nutshell assumes nothing in early chapters, going so far--to cite one example--as to walk readers through the concept of commands with parameters separately from the concept of commands alone. Later the pace picks up, and strategic advice is substituted (such as how to partition a disk for maximum speed and reliability) for "type-this" instructions.

Throughout, the book makes effective use of O'Reilly & Associates' time-tested and remarkably clear format for presenting Unix commands and configuration files. Each chapter concludes with a series of exercises designed to help you discover behaviours on your own, and includes the practice questions you expect in a test-prep aid. --David Wall

Topics covered::the knowledge that's tested on the Linux Professional Institute's exams 101 and 102, which includes everything from basic Linux commands and concepts to installation of the operating system, essential network configuration and kernel recompilation.

Ever wondered howto setup multiple disks to install your linux machine via the command line?

As well as the more simple things such as creating users, copying and manipulating files via the command line is all taught in this book.

Buy it!


READ CAREFULLY   August 26, 2003
14 out of 16 found this review helpful

The objectives for the LPI Level 1 exams have changed (as of March 2003) and this book no longer covers all the objectives and the ones that it does cover may be shown to be a part of the wrong exam. Read the objectives carefully and use the information in this book as it relates to the new exam objectives.


generally very good lacking in some ways though   November 15, 2001
7 out of 7 found this review helpful

im currently half way through my LPIC1 exam, I easily passes exam 101 with the help of this book and not much other material other than a working linux machine, so I guess that goes to show the book teaches well! It took me just over 4 weeks to cover the first half of the book in enough depth to pass the exam. Bad points about the book are there are several typos in the form of diagrams printed in the wrong place or not printed at all which can be a little confusing if youre not expecting them! and as the other review said there is only 1 practice test (with answers) included which isnt really enough. another bad point is that the review exercises dont have answers to them. All in all, even though there are bad points to this book, I gave it 4 stars for a reason and that reason was it passed my test and the style of writing is good, short and to the point. Definately reccomended


An excellent preparatory guide and general Linux reference   July 30, 2001
17 out of 17 found this review helpful

Anyone contemplating taking the Linux Professional Institutes (LPI) exams 101 and 102 part one needs a good guide to help them prepare properly.

This book covers all the required examination topics and in a well structured fashion. As well a being an excellent exam guide, it also serves well as a Linux reference, particulary for those UNIX admins who are already familiar with another platform but need solid Linux information.

Over the years, I have taken many UNIX certification exams and can only emphasise the importance of having a reference which prepares well. You will not be disappointed with this book.

The only thing preventing me from awarding five stars was the relatively small number of specimen questions (answers provided).