Essential Mac OS X Panther Server Administration : Book Review

"Essential Mac OS X Panther Server Administration" by Michael Bartosh is a comprehensive guide that caters to both beginners and experienced users in effectively managing their Mac OS X Panther Server. This book offers detailed and practical instructions on a wide range of topics, including installation, configuration, user management, file sharing, network services, and security.

Bartosh starts off by introducing the key concepts and features of Mac OS X Panther Server, providing a clear understanding of the fundamentals. He then guides readers through the installation and setup process, breaking it down into easy-to-follow steps.

One of the standout features of this book is its extensive coverage of user management. Bartosh explains how to create and manage user accounts, set up appropriate permissions, and control access to server resources. He also offers helpful tips and tricks for troubleshooting common user management issues.

Another highlight is the in-depth exploration of file sharing and network services. Bartosh walks readers through the process of setting up and configuring file sharing protocols like AFP and SMB. Additionally, he offers guidance on implementing network services such as DNS, DHCP, and VPN, making this book a valuable resource for network administrators.

Server security is a crucial topic that Bartosh addresses in detail. He covers essential aspects like configuring firewalls, securing remote access, and implementing SSL certificates. Furthermore, he discusses best practices for securing user accounts and data on the server.

What are readers saying?

"Essential Mac OS X Panther Server Administration" by Michael Bartosh has garnered a mixed reception from readers. While some have found the book to be a valuable tool for mastering macOS server administration, others have expressed disappointment with its lack of depth and failure to meet their expectations.

One reviewer lauded the book for its comprehensive coverage of server administration on the Mac platform. They praised the author for providing clear explanations and step-by-step instructions, making it accessible for users of all experience levels. The reviewer also appreciated the book's in-depth discussions on topics such as networking, file sharing, and security.

However, a number of readers were let down by the book. Some felt that it was outdated and not relevant to the latest versions of macOS, as it was published in 2004. They pointed out that it lacked updates to reflect newer server administration techniques and features. Additionally, a few readers found the writing style to be dry and tedious, which made it challenging to stay engaged while reading.

Another common critique was that the book did not delve deeply into certain topics and left readers wanting more. Several readers were disappointed with the lack of in-depth exploration of server configurations, troubleshooting, and advanced server management techniques. They felt that the book only scratched the surface and lacked the detailed information and practical examples they were looking for.

Despite these mixed reviews, there were still readers who found the book to be a helpful resource for gaining a basic understanding of macOS server administration. They appreciated its organization and considered it a good starting point for further exploration. However, those seeking advanced knowledge or up-to-date information may need to seek additional resources.

MacOSXPantherServerAdministration ServerAdministration ITBook