Overall, Ford's Apache 2 Pocket Reference does what it promises to do.
According to the preface, this is to "Summarize Apache's command-line
options and the configuration directives for the modules in the standard
distribution." Applicable to version 2 of Apache, this guide is a solid
companion to the server software. With chapters on the server environment,
URL mappng, access controls, caching, SSL support, logging, proxying, and
several other more advanced areas of operation, the book is a handy
reference to have.
Something to keep in mind, however, is that it is intended to be a
reference for administrators; as such, many commands and code examples are
far above the ability level of an inexperienced user such as myself. From
my standpoint, however, this guide is becoming more and more indispensable
as my ability level increases, mainly due to the simplicity of layout.
With an included index, and fairly logical chapter layout, commands are
easy to find, and the provided explanations and code examples are easily
followed. The main downfall of Apache 2 Pocket Reference, in my opinion,
is the text formatting in code examples. It is often confusing, though I
wouldn't go so far as to call it difficult to follow, if the command is
not previously understood. Again, though, since it is intended as a
reference book, I can't really complain.
Overall, I would rate the Apache 2 Pocket Reference as a well-written,
useful reference material for users of intermediate experience levels and
upward. For the beginner, perhaps fora and http://httpd.apache.org/docs/
are better resources.
Review at http://elug.ca/reviews/apache_2_pocket_reference.shtml (http://elug.ca/reviews/apache_2_pocket_reference.shtml)
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