Non TechProGuild members may download the alpha version of our first Windows XP Security TechProGuide, which covers viruses, worms and spyware, using this link (note, you'll have to cut and paste it into your browser):
http://techrepublic.com.com/5138-22-5221091.html
Please give it a try and forward your feedback to erik.eckel@cnet.com.
Many thanks,
EE
The Alpha version of our security guide for Windows XP is ready for download and evaluation! When we first looked at the topic, we wound up with about 100 pages worth of content.
We thought it would be a good idea to break it down into smaller sections, so that's what we did. We broke down Windows XP security into these areas:
? Group Policy
? File and printer sharing
? Encrypting files
? VPN
? Firewalls
? Wireless
? Desktop security
? Viruses, Worms, and Spyware
We decided to release the viruses portion first. Download it, take a look, and let us know what you think.
http://techrepublic.com.com/5138-6355-5221091.html
John Sheesley
Senior Editor
oshwick,
Thanks for your interest. Please be sure to check back soon, as I'll post a link here reviewers can use to access the alpha.
EE
I find Quick Start Guides useful and would be happy to get in on the early feedback reviews also.
BHunsinger,
Thanks for sharing these thoughts. We've debated other file formats, but we've hear from many members who prefer PDFs for their ease of printing.
We could create HTML files or RTFs, too, though. Ultimately we could probably create a PDF-accompanying standalone checklist as an Excel file. Might that help?
EE
bswin,
Thanks for your interest. I'll be sure to post a link here once the template is ready mid-week next week. We'll only be publishing an alpha version, as we'll be relying upon reader feedback to flesh out the guide.
EE
Quick start guides are an excellent idea, would very much like to add my two cents while still in the formative stage.
First thoughts on usefulness. A pdf only format can be a pain. I have a full version of adobe acrobat and making notes or comments even with that is ... laborious. Also it can be hard to read on a laptop if you are onsite doing support. So for comments, perhaps a rtf file might help. As a final tool, perhap HTML would be a good format, especially for trouble shooting.
Maybe it's just me, but onsite, people seem to give you more respect if you are following a checklist on a laptop rather than a piece of paper. Seriously, I really like to have my support tools with me, you never know when the opportunity to be a hero will arive, and not everyone has access to broadband yet.
Thanks, I'll ensure you're added to my e-mail list of reviewers.
Having a help desk perspective will certainly prove valuable.
EE
Kurt,
I appreciate your interest. I'll make sure I add you to my e-mail list for reviewers.
Thanks,
EE
TechRepublic editors need opinions on new quick-start guides
Based on what we've heard in the past, the first topic we're going to develop an alpha version for is Windows XP Professional Security. After brainstorming, editors here think it makes the most sense to include the following elements: overview, planning, setup & configuration, troubleshooting, optimizing, and a glossary. We're also creating an interactive checklist you can use. It highlights common actions IT pros should take to secure WinXP Pro environments.
How well might such a completed tool work for you? And, would you be willing to review an alpha version when we publish it? If you're interested in participating, please e-mail me at eeckel@techrepublic.com.
Thanks much,
Erik Eckel
TechRepublic Executive Editor