Mandriva 2011 Alpha 2 is now powered by Linux kernel 2.6.37.2, it features an up-to-date NetworkManager, the iBus input framework replaced the old SCIM one, lots of updates and bug fixes.
"Among the most noticeable features are the simplification of the initial setup steps, both when running the image in Live mode, or before the installation, update to kernel 2.6.37.2, integration of the latest networkmanager-mdv plugin by
Andrey Borzenkov, switch from scim to ibus for input framework, more indepth systemd integration into the system, and, of course, lots of packages updates all around." - said Eugeni Dodonov in the Mandriva blog announcement.

The two leading Linux certification bodies, CompTIA and Linux Professional Institute (LPI), have joined forces to release two new Linux+ exams, LX0-101 and LX0-102. This new Sybex study guide breaks down everything you need to prepare for the exams. Covering all exam objectives, the book explains Linux command-line tools, managing software, configuring hardware, managing files and filesystems, and much more. The companion CD features a leading-edge test engine and a host of other study tools, giving you ample opportunity to study, practice, and review.

If you've already got Linux up and running on your machine and you really want to exploit its capabilities, Beginning Linux Programming is packed full of useful information that will keep you busy for weeks. In spite of its title, Beginning Linux Programming isn't oriented toward novices. It assumes that you're a competent C programmer but are simply new to the specifics of Linux. Authors Neil Matthew and Richard Stones introduce a plethora of fundamental concepts including shell programming, file access, and using curses to write full-screen, character-based programs. But that's just the start. They cover advanced topics such as processes, pipes, semaphores, and sockets - and of course, they address issues common to Internet programming such as using CGI (Common Gateway Interface). The book is a superb resource for anyone who has really wanted to put the pedal to the metal in Linux. This revised second edition has been completely updated, and now covers programming in Perl, an introduction to writing applications for the GNOME desktop, and a new chapter about writing device drivers.

The Novell CLE Study Guide, the official study guide to Novell's Certified Linux Engineer (CLE) exam, meets the needs of those seeking to pass the Novell Certified Linux Engineer exam. The Novell CLE Study Guide provides deeper coverage of Nterprise Services for Linux components than any other documentation and the knowledge needed to pass the practical exam with coverage of the Novell Nterprise Linux Services (NNLS) using hands-on labs and scenarios. The accompanying CD includes practice questions to prepare the reader for the exam.

For use with all versions of Linux, including Ubuntu,™ Fedora,™ openSUSE,™ Red Hat,® Debian, Mandriva, Mint, and now OS X, too!
Get more done faster, and become a true Linux guru by mastering the command line!
Learn from hundreds of realistic, high-quality examples
NEW! Coverage of the Mac OS X command line and its unique tools
NEW! Expert primer on automating tasks with Perl
The Most Useful Linux Tutorial and Reference, with Hundreds of High-Quality Examples for Every Distribution–Now Covers OS X and Perl, Too!

This book is designed and organized so you can get the most out of it in the shortest amount of time. You do not have to read this book straight through in page order. Once you are comfortable using Linux, you can use this book as a reference: Look up a topic of interest in the table of contents or index and read about it. Or think of the book as a catalog of Linux topics: Flip through the pages until a topic catches your eye. The book includes many pointers to Web sites where you can get additional information: Consider the Internet an extension of this book.

Junior Level Administration (LPIC-1)
Advanced Level Administration (LPIC-2)

From installations, administration and troubleshooting to security issues, performance monitoring and recovery, you'll get a complete education on Linux products.