Reviewed by Dharmendra Sant, October 2003
(9 of 10)
The book is intended for those of us that prefer to tamper with or 'improve' the basic Windows XP package. I would say that target audience should range from those who are more knowledgeable than just opening Windows Explorer and surfing around to those who are hardcore 'tweak geeks' like myself who just have to find a way to make everything run faster, smoother and with minimal work.
Windows XP Hacks is very well thought out from beginning to end: it takes you from tweaking the start up and boot up screen, to making file surfing easier, to internet usage and finally exploring registry hacking.
The language used in the book never comes across as dry or 'techy', I never felt as though I was being schooled, rather I was being talked with about hacking XP, which promotes user friendliness and immediately puts the novice reader at ease and in a frame of mind to continue reading. The information provided on tweaking XP will initiate someone from entry level to a full fledged tweaker. Hardcore 'geeks' will find some new tidbits of information in the book, but it will benefit the entry level and mid level computer enthusiast the most. The tips are very well explained and some are further enhanced with illustrations which always make things even easier.
All in all, this is a great read and a definite tool for those willing to get down and dirty with Windows XP.
(9 of 10)
