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Expert Product Reviews

11 Articles
article-image-comprehensive-review-of-the-art-of-micro-frontends-second-edition-by-sunil-raj-thota
Sunil Raj Thota
07 Nov 2024
10 min read
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Comprehensive Review of 'The Art of Micro Frontends - Second Edition' by Sunil Raj Thota

Sunil Raj Thota
07 Nov 2024
10 min read
We are pleased to share a comprehensive review of "The Art of Micro Frontends - Second Edition", published by Packt, and written by the reviewer Sunil Raj Thota. This review offers an in-depth exploration of the book's key themes and insights, providing readers with a thorough understanding of its value.Please find the review below:"The Art of Micro Frontends" provides a deep dive into the complexities and benefits of adopting a micro-frontend architecture, making it a must-read for modern web developers. One of the most valuable aspects of this book is its practical and strategic approach to breaking down monolithic frontends into scalable, manageable micro-frontend components. By addressing both high-level architectural considerations and lower-level implementation details, this book offers readers a well-rounded view of the possibilities micro-frontends present for their projects.Compared to other resources on micro-frontends, "The Art of Micro Frontends" stands out for its balance between theory and application. While many books or articles focus on the basics or theoretical underpinnings, this book includes real-world examples, actionable code snippets, and detailed case studies. This combination allows developers to not only understand the architectural philosophy but also implement micro-frontends efficiently in their applications.The book is especially beneficial for front-end developers and architects who work on large, complex applications where modularity and scalability are key. Engineering managers and product leaders will also find value in the strategic insights around project scalability and maintainability. By discussing how micro-frontends can improve team productivity and reduce interdependencies, the authors offer clear reasons why this approach is worth considering for long-term projects.A personal highlight for me was the chapter on cross-team collaboration. In my experience, one of the most challenging aspects of frontend development in large-scale applications is managing dependencies and ensuring that updates in one part of an app don’t cause issues elsewhere. The authors’ insights into creating shared frameworks, setting up standardized APIs, and fostering collaborative environments among teams are practical tips that resonate with real-world scenarios. It’s clear that these practices not only facilitate smoother development processes but also empower teams to work more autonomously.What makes "The Art of Micro Frontends" unique is its attention to both the technical and organizational impacts of this architectural approach. The authors don't simply advocate for micro-frontends as a solution to technical challenges but also discuss how they can transform team structures, promote autonomy, and reduce coordination overhead. This broader perspective makes the book not just a technical manual but also a strategic guide for teams and leaders considering this shift.In summary, "The Art of Micro Frontends" is a comprehensive resource that offers both technical depth and strategic guidance. It stands out in the field by equipping readers with the knowledge to implement micro-frontends in a way that enhances modularity, scalability, and team efficiency. For developers and architects committed to staying on the cutting edge of front-end architecture, this book is an invaluable addition to their library. It will undoubtedly help teams create more resilient, flexible applications that can scale with the demands of modern software development.This book has the potential to change how teams approach frontend architecture by illustrating the clear benefits of micro-frontends in both technical and organizational terms. I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in advancing their understanding of modern web development strategies.Reviewer BioSunil Raj Thota is a seasoned software engineer with extensive experience in web development and AI applications. Currently working at Amazon QuickSight Team, Sunil has previously contributed to significant projects at Yahoo Inc., enhancing user engagement and satisfaction through innovative features at Yahoo and AOL Mail. He has also worked at Northeastern University as a research assistant and at MOURI Tech as a senior software engineer, optimizing multiple websites and leading successful project deployments. Sunil co-founded ISF Technologies, where he championed user-centric design and agile methodologies. He has also contributed to the book Demystifying AI for Web Development. His academic background includes a master’s in analytics from Northeastern University and a bachelor’s in electronics and communications engineering from Andhra University.
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Athulya Ganapathi Kandy
06 Nov 2024
5 min read
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Comprehensive Review of 'Modern Graph Theory Algorithms with Python' by Athulya Ganapathi Kandy

Athulya Ganapathi Kandy
06 Nov 2024
5 min read
We are pleased to share a comprehensive review of "Modern Graph Theory Algorithms with Python", published by Packt, and written by the reviewer Athulya Ganapathi Kandy. This review offers an in-depth exploration of the book's key themes and insights, providing readers with a thorough understanding of its value.Please find the review below:Modern Graph Theory Algorithms with Python by Colleen M. Farrelly and Franck Kalala Mutombo is a comprehensive and insightful guide that bridges the gap between theoretical graph theory and practical applications using Python. This book stands out for several reasons, making it a valuable resource for both novice and experienced data scientists and programmers.Content and Structure:The book is well-structured, beginning with fundamental concepts of graph theory and progressively delving into more complex algorithms and real-world applications. The authors do an excellent job of explaining the theory behind each algorithm, followed by clear, well-commented Python implementations. This approach allows readers to not only understand the concepts but also see how they can be applied in practical scenarios.Highlights:Comprehensive Coverage: The book covers a wide range of topics, including basic graph terminology, traversal algorithms, shortest path algorithms, network flow, and graph coloring. Each topic is explained thoroughly, with a balance of theory and code examples.Practical Applications: Farrelly and Mutombo illustrate the real-world relevance of graph algorithms through diverse examples and case studies. Whether it's social network analysis, logistics, or bioinformatics, the applications demonstrate the versatility and power of graph theory.Python Integration: The use of Python for implementing the algorithms is a significant strength. The authors leverage popular libraries such as NetworkX, making it easy for readers to experiment with and extend the provided code. This practical approach helps in solidifying the reader's understanding and encourages hands-on learning.Clear Explanations: The book is written in a clear and accessible style. The authors take care to explain complex concepts in an intuitive manner, often using diagrams and step-by-step walkthroughs of algorithms. This makes the book suitable for readers with varying levels of expertise in graph theory and programming.Areas for Improvement:Depth in Advanced Topics: While the book provides a solid foundation and covers a wide array of topics, some advanced topics could benefit from deeper exploration. For readers looking for in-depth coverage of cutting-edge graph algorithms, additional resources might be necessary.Assumed Prerequisites: The book assumes a basic understanding of Python and fundamental programming concepts. While this is reasonable for the target audience, absolute beginners might find some sections challenging without supplementary learning materials.Conclusion:Modern Graph Theory Algorithms with Python is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to harness the power of graph algorithms in real-world applications. Colleen M. Farrelly and Franck Kalala Mutombo have crafted a book that is both educational and practical, making complex concepts accessible and applicable. Whether you're a data scientist, software engineer, or researcher, this book provides the tools and knowledge needed to effectively utilize graph theory in your work.Highly recommended for those eager to explore the fascinating world of graph algorithms through the lens of Python programming.
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Michael Bernhardt
04 Nov 2024
5 min read
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Comprehensive Review of 'Threat Modeling Gameplay with EoP' by Michael Bernhardt

Michael Bernhardt
04 Nov 2024
5 min read
We are pleased to share a comprehensive review of "Threat Modeling Gameplay with EoP", published by Packt, and written by the reviewer Michael Bernhardt. This review offers an in-depth exploration of the book's key themes and insights, providing readers with a thorough understanding of its value. This book helps you to explore software security through gamified threat modeling, uncovering risks while making it enjoyable. You’ll learn to identify, mitigate, and defend against threats, enhancing your system's security.Please find the review below:You won't forget the first Threat Model workshop that you conducted. Whether it is the excitement in preparation of the workshop or the attempt to find the right attack vectors during the workshop. Remembering my first workshops more than 15 years ago, I was glad to work together with a group of technical-savvy and security-interested people. Over the years, I met diverse groups that helped me to constantly complement my skills and perspectives on the matter. What do you do when nowadays you want to prepare yourself best for the first time you are conducting a Threat Modeling with a team? Numerous books have meanwhile been released that talk about the process and the concepts. While this is for sure a helpful input to have a template for Threat Modeling, it does not guide you in the discussion with the teams on the particular threats in the application and the respective resolutions. There, Brett's Threat Modeling Gameplay with EoP comes as a helpful guide, giving you the right examples and proposals at hand for anyone starting into the domain. It leverages STRIDE as the most used framework for the security assessment and TRIM for privacy alike. So, how does it look like? Do you know what is behind the term Repudiation, can you correlate the term Inference to an example? Considering that you know Repudiation, did you consider assuring the secure time synchronization across the application systems and for the logging service? As a provider of a large language model, did you consider that the model may pose a sensitive information disclosure risk by insufficient training data evaluation and thereby contradict common AI regulations? The book brings you more than 200 examples, outlining on the threat itself, providing its attack pattern and weakness classification, and provides you the security controls and guidance for preventing it. And, if you find together with a bunch of security folks interested to complement their skills over a deck of card, the book gives you a strategic advantage playing Adam Shoestack’s Elevation of Privilege – but sshhhh, don’t tell the others… Best of luck for your endeavor into the world of Threat Modeling and enjoy the journey! Reviewer BioMichael Bernhardt is a seasoned security strategist and believes that a solid security culture is the essential glue for technological innovation and strong security. Throughout his more than 15 years in the profession, he has advised dozens of Fortune-500 SAP ERP customers and is currently helping Germany’s second-largest telecommunication provider in their secure cloud transformation as head of product security. He is leading the Corporate Security Program Evolution Model (CSPEM) initiative, which brings along tools and concepts for the organizational transformation of security programs. Additionally, he is a founder of the OWASP Security Champions Manifesto and Threat Modeling Connect, and regularly shares his perspective at conferences and on blogs.
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Ernest Namdar
30 Oct 2024
5 min read
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Comprehensive Review of 'Hands-On Genetic Algorithms with Python - 2nd Ed' by Ernest Namdar

Ernest Namdar
30 Oct 2024
5 min read
We are pleased to share a comprehensive review of "Hands-On Genetic Algorithms with Python - Second Edition", published by Packt, and written by Ernest Namdar. This review offers an in-depth exploration of the book's key themes and insights, providing readers with a thorough understanding of its value.Please find the review below:"Hands-On Genetic Algorithms with Python" by Eyal Wirsansky stands out as an exemplary resource for anyone eager to explore the world of Genetic Algorithms (GAs). Wirsansky has crafted a comprehensive guide that caters to a wide spectrum of needs, making it an invaluable asset whether you are a student, researcher, or educator. This book brilliantly balances theoretical foundations with practical applications, providing a clear and thorough exploration of GAs.The table of contents unfolds like pieces of a puzzle, fitting together seamlessly to reveal an impressive and coherent picture of GAs. The author has included a well-organized, meticulously documented, and accessible Python code repository. This hands-on approach empowers readers to gain practical experience, enabling them to apply the techniques to their own research and projects effectively.The fact that the book has reached its second edition is a testament to its success and wide acceptance in the field. Similar to the first edition, Part 3 is the highlight, where the intersection of GAs and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is explored in depth. Topics such as Feature Selection for Machine Learning (ML) models, Hyperparameter Tuning, Architecture Optimization of Deep Learning Networks, and Reinforcement Learning with GAs are comprehensively covered, continuing to build on the solid foundation laid in the previous edition.In this new edition, Wirsansky has introduced two captivating chapters: “Natural Language Processing (NLP)”, and “Explainable AI, Causality, and Counterfactuals with Genetic Algorithms”. These additions are not only timely but also extremely impactful, given the current prominence of these topics. The discussion on counterfactuals, though concise, manages to be both informative and profound, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of its applications. I eagerly anticipate the third edition, hoping to see more examples of GAs applied to XAI and Causality.A notable addition to this edition is the chapter on Enhancing Performance with Concurrency and Cloud Strategies. This is particularly relevant for professionals dealing with big data or projects that demand swift execution. It introduces a new dimension to the book, equipping readers with strategies to handle computational challenges efficiently.The final chapter offers a glimpse into other evolutionary and bio-inspired computation methods, serving as a valuable guide for fundamental researchers and curious learners looking to expand their knowledge beyond Genetic Algorithms. This "where-to-go" section opens new avenues for exploration and study.Looking forward, it would be beneficial for future editions to address the (current) limitations of GAs. Given Eyal Wirsansky's expertise in both GAs and Deep Learning (DL), an exploration of how GAs could potentially revolutionize DL in the future would be particularly fascinating and insightful.
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Sorin Pasa
29 Oct 2024
5 min read
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Comprehensive Review of 'GitHub for Next-Generation Coders' by Sorin Pasa

Sorin Pasa
29 Oct 2024
5 min read
We are pleased to share a comprehensive review of "GitHub for Next-Generation Coders", published by Packt, and written by Sorin Pasa. This review offers an in-depth exploration of the book's key themes and insights, providing readers with a thorough understanding of its value.Please find the review below:"GitHub for Next-Generation Coders" by Igor Irić is a meticulously crafted guide that seamlessly bridges the gap between novice and proficient GitHub users, primarily targeting young coders eager to harness the full potential of this indispensable platform. Given Igor's extensive background as a senior Azure solutions architect and GitHub trainer, the book benefits from his profound expertise and practical experience. This is evident throughout the text, which is rich with real-world applications and actionable insights.  What did you find most valuable in the book you've reviewed?  One of the most valuable aspects of the book is its structured approach to teaching GitHub. The content is methodically divided into clear, progressive sections that cater to different levels of expertise. Starting with an introduction to version control and GitHub basics, Igor ensures that even readers with minimal background can follow along comfortably. The sections on collaborative development using GitHub and mastering Git commands are particularly beneficial, offering practical advice on handling real-world scenarios like resolving merge conflicts and making effective pull requests. The emphasis on GitHub Actions for automation and enhancing security measures is also timely and relevant, given the increasing focus on DevOps and secure coding practices.  How does the book compare to competitors in the field?  Compared to other books in the same domain, "GitHub for Next-Generation Coders" stands out for its comprehensive yet accessible approach. Many competing titles either delve too deeply into advanced topics too quickly or skim over essential basics, leaving beginners overwhelmed or inadequately prepared. Igor's book strikes a fine balance, providing a solid foundation before moving on to more complex functionalities. Furthermore, the inclusion of GitHub Copilot and its role in aiding code creation is a unique addition, reflecting the latest advancements in AI-driven development tools.  Who would benefit the most from the book?  This book is ideally suited for young coders, students, and early-career developers who are new to GitHub and version control systems. However, even seasoned developers will find value in the advanced sections, particularly those focused on GitHub Actions and security. Educators and mentors looking for a reliable resource to introduce GitHub to their students will also find this book immensely useful.  Can you share a personal anecdote related to the content?  As a developer who has mentored junior team members, I often encounter the challenge of explaining the nuances of version control and collaborative coding. I recall an instance where a new team member struggled with resolving a merge conflict. The clear, step-by-step guidance provided in Igor's book on this topic mirrors the advice I had to piece together from various sources. Having such a resource would have made the process smoother and less intimidating for the new coder.  What unique insights or perspectives does the book offer?  Igor Irić brings a unique mentor's perspective to the book, which is evident in the way he anticipates common pitfalls and queries that new users might have. His extensive experience with global enterprises and cutting-edge technology strategies informs the book's content, particularly in areas like security and automation. The focus on engaging with the open-source community is another standout feature, encouraging readers to not only use GitHub as a tool but also to contribute and collaborate on a broader scale. This holistic view of GitHub as both a development and a community platform sets the book apart.  In conclusion, "GitHub for Next-Generation Coders" is an invaluable resource that promises to equip young coders with the skills and confidence needed to excel in collaborative software development. Igor Irić's expertise and passion for knowledge-sharing shine through, making this book a must-have for anyone looking to master GitHub. Reviewer BioSorin Pasa is a seasoned cloud architect and Microsoft Certified Trainer with nearly 20 years of experience in the IT industry. Well known for his expertise in designing and implementing scalable cloud solutions, Sorin has consistently driven innovation and efficiency across various organizations and industries, in multiple countries. His deep knowledge of Microsoft technologies, combined with a passion for teaching, has empowered countless professionals to enhance their skills. Sorin’s commitment to excellence and his ability to navigate complex technical landscapes make him a pivotal figure in the cloud computing community.
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Johnnie Jones
28 Oct 2024
5 min read
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Comprehensive Review of 'Effective .NET Memory Management' by Johnnie Jones

Johnnie Jones
28 Oct 2024
5 min read
We are pleased to share a comprehensive review of "Effective .NET Memory Management", published by Packt, and written by Johnnie Jones. This review offers an in-depth exploration of the book's key themes and insights, providing readers with a thorough understanding of its value.Please find the review below:As a Senior Machine Learning Engineer, optimizing applications for performance is at the core of what I do, especially when dealing with large datasets and resource-intensive computations. Memory management, often underestimated, plays a pivotal role in how well an application performs and scales. That’s why Trevoir Williams’ Effective .NET Memory Management immediately resonated with me as a must-read for anyone working within the .NET ecosystem.This book expertly navigates the intricacies of memory management in .NET Core, from the fundamentals of memory allocation to advanced garbage collection techniques. What sets Trevoir’s work apart is his ability to bridge theory with practical, real-world application. His hands-on examples and clear explanations make even complex topics like multithreading and asynchronous programming both accessible and highly relevant.One of the standout aspects of the book is its focus on memory profiling and optimization—areas that are critical in fields like machine learning, where performance bottlenecks can have significant implications. Trevoir provides actionable insights on minimizing memory fragmentation, managing object lifetimes, and effectively utilizing stack and heap memory. These are essential skills for any developer aiming to write efficient, high-performance code.Trevoir’s structured approach, starting with core principles and advancing to more complex techniques, ensures that this book is valuable whether you’re an experienced developer or someone looking to deepen your understanding of .NET Core’s memory management. The sections on troubleshooting memory leaks and diagnosing performance issues are particularly practical, addressing challenges that every developer encounters sooner or later.In a world where software efficiency and scalability are crucial, Effective .NET Memory Management arms developers with the tools and knowledge to optimize their applications. Trevoir’s insights will help you not just understand how memory is managed but also how to leverage that understanding to build faster, more reliable software.In conclusion: This book is a vital resource for any .NET developer serious about mastering memory management. Trevoir Williams delivers a thorough and practical guide that deserves a place in every developer’s library. 
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Ankit Srivastava
25 Oct 2024
5 min read
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Comprehensive Review of 'Systems Programming with C# and .NET' by Ankit Srivastava

Ankit Srivastava
25 Oct 2024
5 min read
We are pleased to share a comprehensive review of "Systems Programming with C# and .NET", published by Packt, and written by Ankit Srivastava. This review offers an in-depth exploration of the book's key themes and insights, providing readers with a thorough understanding of its value. Unlock the full potential of C# and .NET Core in systems programming to secure, deploy, and maintain robust applications. With this book, you’ll focus on low-level APIs, memory management, and performance optimization.Please find the review below:What did you find most valuable in the book you've reviewed? The content is amazing i.e., It covers the very basics to advanced system programming. Author has tried multiple ways to interact with people by providing code snippets, assembly  conversion, decoding it, and getting a better understanding. A lot of books only focus on one area and don't teach us about the other things. This is one of the all rounder books for systems programming where we covered multiple areas e.g., Logging, Security, Performance, etc. How does the book compare to competitors in the field? Not many books are written in this area i.e., which focuses on system programming with C#. In the past people actually wrote books on kernel programming but mainly it was in either C or C++ and hence, this book became one of the out of league books which offer such learning in a .NET environment. Who would benefit the most from the book? A young college student to an experienced developer. All would learn something from this book. The content is extraordinary and the author has done an excellent job in articulating everything. Can you share a personal anecdote related to the content?   When I first got the chance to review a book on C# systems programming, I was genuinely excited. I’d been working on complex .NET projects for years, but diving into the systems-level side of things wasn’t something I’d really explored. As I started reading, what really impressed me was how the book made systems programming feel accessible. It seamlessly connected what I already knew about high-level application development with the more intricate, behind-the-scenes system interactions.   What unique insights or perspectives does the book offer? C# learning is offered by other books as well. Here the author considers that someone is already having hands on to C# and the unique things are Systems programming, Multithreading, Logging, Security, Deployment strategies, CI/CD, Risk mitigation, effective troubleshooting, profiling tools, etc. makes it one of the very few books. Reviewer BioAnkit Srivastava is a seasoned Senior Developer at Walmart; boasting seven years of extensive experience in software development. He specializes in .NET Development, Windows Development, WPF, WCF, REST API, .NET Core, .NET Standard, Python, and Linux. Ankit earned his Bachelor of Technology degree in Information Technology from Harcourt Butler Technological Institute and holds certifications in C#, C/C++, Python, Linux, Java, and SQL. Throughout his career, he has made signifi cant contributions to diverse domains, including Semiconductors, Automotive, Storage, Chemical Heat Exchangers, and Health and Wellness.
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Sourav Kundu
23 Oct 2024
5 min read
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Comprehensive Review of 'Google Machine Learning and Generative AI for Solutions Architects' by Sourav Kundu

Sourav Kundu
23 Oct 2024
5 min read
We are pleased to share a comprehensive review of "Google Machine Learning and Generative AI for Solutions Architects", published by Packt, and written by Sourav Kundu. This review offers an in-depth exploration of the book's key themes and insights, providing readers with a thorough understanding of its value.Please find the review below:Google Machine Learning and Generative AI for Solutions Architects" provides an introduction to foundational AI/ML concepts and Google Cloud's tools, guiding readers through practical applications, custom model building, and data preparation techniques. It covers model deployment, and MLOps practices and addresses fairness, bias, and explainability in AI models. The book concludes with a comprehensive overview of generative AI, including its evolution, applications, and advanced techniques.A few important topics of the book that I want to highlight are as follows:The book begins with an introduction to foundational AI/ML concepts and explores various real-world applications and challenges, laying the groundwork for understanding more advanced topics in the book along with explaining the ML Model Development Life Cycle.Next, it provides an overview of setting up and utilizing Google Cloud AI/ML services, including an introduction to the platform's tools and capabilities.It then focuses on practical applications of high-level AI services for common tasks such as image recognition and sentiment analysis​.The book guides readers through building custom machine learning models on Google Cloud, using popular libraries like scikit-learn along with Vertex AI.It further covers data preparation techniques for AI/ML, including building both batch and streaming data pipelines on Google Cloud, and discusses techniques for feature engineering and dimensionality reduction, highlighting tools such as PCA, LDA, and the Vertex AI Feature Store​The book then explores the concept of hyperparameters and strategies for hyperparameter optimization, providing hands-on examples with Vertex AI​ and also introduces neural networks and deep learning concepts, including model implementation in TensorFlow and challenges in optimizing neural networks.The book covers deployment strategies, monitoring, and scaling models in production environments, including A/B testing and edge optimization, and discusses the principles of MLOps (Machine Learning Operations) and how to implement them using tools like Vertex AI Pipelines for efficient model management​.It then examines critical issues around bias, fairness, and explainability in AI models, as well as the importance of lineage in tracking model development,​​ and focuses on governance practices and the architecture framework necessary for managing AI/ML workloads on Google Cloud.Finally, the book covers the concepts and techniques of generative AI, discussing its evolution and applications along with more advanced generative AI techniques, and providing insights into state-of-the-art models and their practical uses​.
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Ali Husamuddeen
23 Oct 2024
5 min read
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Comprehensive Review of 'The Aspiring CIO and CISO' by Ali Husamuddeen

Ali Husamuddeen
23 Oct 2024
5 min read
We are pleased to share a comprehensive review of "The Aspiring CIO and CISO", published by Packt, and written by Ali Husamuddeen. This review offers an in-depth exploration of the book's key themes and insights, providing readers with a thorough understanding of its value.Please find the review below:This comprehensive book provides an authentic portrayal of the challenges and opportunities that come with being a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) or Chief Information Officer (CIO). David candidly discusses the prerequisites for entering these roles, the responsibilities that come with them, and how to navigate one's career when in these positions.One of the most appealing aspects of this book is its honesty, which sets it apart from others in the genre. Rather than painting a rosy picture or using grandiose self-aggrandizing language, David acknowledges the stress and continuous learning required in these roles while breaking them down into smaller digestible pieces of wisdom. After having read all of it, one understands why it is important to be comfortable being uncomfortable.The book adopts a practical approach, prescribing SKEB analysis and Myers Briggs to help readers understand the nuances of CISO and CIO universe. Initially, some readers may find the format a bit unusual, however with David’s extensive experience, this style is well-suited to convey the subject matter effectively. The inclusion of technology risk management adds an extra layer of depth to the discussion, making it particularly interesting for those unsure about the CISO/CIO pathway.A standout section in the book is dedicated to "moments of truth," which offers valuable insights into the critical junctures that can define a career as a CISO or CIO. This part arrives at an opportune moment and is sure to resonate with readers on their own professional journeys. The particular story at the end of which it was impossible to tell who was the contractor, staff, or vendor, will always stay with me. I only wish I had discovered these lessons years ago.There is much to learn on how to be a good CISO / CIO in between these pages. The writing style is steadfast, making for an enjoyable read that feels grounded in reality. David also candidly delves into the topic of organisational politics and questions whether it's wise to bring one's former team to the new organisation. It was delightful to see it encouraging loyalty to the enterprise rather than individuals.Many CISO / CIO aspirants are bound to find this book re-assuring. Yes, honesty can exist at all levels. Yes, data based decision making can take precedence. Yes, objective hiring and retention can be aspired for. Yes, one can still have a work life balance. It serves as a source of inspiration, highlighting the possibilities available to those who pursue such career paths.And when one thinks one is done, thought-provoking questions in the appendix encapsulate its key takeaways and provide a solid foundation for further reflection.If one were to contrast this book with every LinkedIn post and a curated selection of books addressing the same subject, it would be evident that this book would stand head and shoulders above the rest because of its humble tone, genuine purpose, and demystifying content alone.
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Andreas Drbal
22 Oct 2024
5 min read
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Comprehensive Review of 'Zabbix 7 IT Infrastructure Monitoring Cookbook' by Andreas Drbal

Andreas Drbal
22 Oct 2024
5 min read
We are pleased to share a comprehensive review of "Zabbix 7 IT Infrastructure Monitoring Cookbook", published by Packt, and written by Andreas Drbal. This review offers an in-depth exploration of the book's key themes and insights, providing readers with a thorough understanding of its value.Please find the review below:"Zabbix 7 IT Infrastructure Monitoring Cookbook" is a concise and practical guide that dives into a tool, Zabbix, I both personally and professionally enjoy using. The book is well-written and provides hands-on examples for applying monitoring to applications, making it a valuable resource for CloudOps, DevOps, or Site Reliability Engineers.What did you find most valuable in the book you've reviewed?The immersive and hands-on sections were particularly valuable which reinforced concepts of monitoring and alerting for an application or network engineer. The practical examples, such as implementing Docker container monitoring using Zabbix Agent 2, made complex tasks approachable and easy to execute.How does the book compare to competitors in the field?This book stands out for its simplicity and well-structured content that's easy to digest. Unlike other resources, it allows readers to jump to various chapters independently, providing flexibility and catering to different learning needs.Who would benefit the most from the book?Engineers and professionals involved in infrastructure monitoring—especially those in CloudOps, DevOps, or Site Reliability roles—would benefit greatly from this book. It's also useful for anyone looking to implement a powerful monitoring solution in any environment that they manage that is connected to the network.Can you share a personal anecdote related to the content?Recently, my team implemented Docker container monitoring using Zabbix Agent 2, and the steps outlined in the book made the process easy to follow and implement. It was like having a seasoned expert guiding us!What unique insights or perspectives does the book offer?The authors, Nathan Liefting and Brian van Baekel, draw upon their professional and personal experience with Zabbix and add their personal industry insights to highlight effective ways to monitor networks and applications. Particularly their experience with the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) was enjoyable to test and implement in our monitoring stack.In conclusion, "Zabbix 7 IT Infrastructure Monitoring Cookbook" is a practical and valuable resource that equips engineers with the skills needed to effectively monitor IT infrastructure. Its hands-on approach and the authors' expertise make it a must-have for professionals seeking to enhance their monitoring capabilities.Reviewer BioAndreas Drbal boasts a decade in tech, evolving from a self-taught frontend developer to a key fi gure in DevOps and CloudOps. His academic journey led him to UCLA, majoring in English with a German minor, and later acquiring a master’s in information systems management and an MBA. Andreas’s passion for monitoring began with Zabbix 3.x in 2015, integrating it with IoT devices. Currently, as a senior manager at Cloud Soft ware Group, he’s driven by automation, streamlining the DevOps life cycle, and ensuring team productivity.
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Brian Schneider
22 Oct 2024
2 min read
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Comprehensive Review of Python for Algorithmic Trading Cookbook by Brian Schneider

Brian Schneider
22 Oct 2024
2 min read
We are pleased to share a comprehensive review of Python for Algorithmic Trading Cookbook, published by Packt Publishing, and written by Brian Schneider. This review offers an in-depth exploration of the book's key themes and insights, providing readers with a thorough understanding of its value.Please find the review below:1.  The most valuable aspect of the book is its comprehensive aggregation of financial theory and Python to enable the reader with skills and tools to implement algorithmic trading systems.  The book saves the reader countless hours of research and coding by providing the latest tools, financial theory, and coding steps all in one place.  This gives the reader a tremendous head start on their algorithmic trading journey.   2.  The book is unique in that it includes cutting-edge Python modules to provide readers with instant results, as opposed to delving too deep into theory and code.  Many books in this area, generally do not provide this well-balanced approach, including detailed instructions for the reader to implement their own strategies with broker APIs.  The book streamlines the trading strategy evaluation process, arming the reader with valuable skills and tools to identify their best ideas quickly; while providing a solid balance of both quantitative finance theory and Python. 3.  This book is a true 'how-to' for algorithmic trading practitioners and enthusiasts alike.  The book provides seasoned or novice traders the needed steps to go from trading ideas, to code implementation - with no Pythonic syntax left out!  I wish I had a book like this when I started. 4.  I was fortunate to have worked with Jason on automated investment strategies in the past and his insight and clarity are unmatched.  The algorithmic strategies we developed overlap with topics in the book, however, Jason has splendidly pulled together the complete end-to-end recipe!   Equally impressive, is the amount of research Jason has put into finding the latest tools in the Python universe to save the reader time.  The book was a pleasure to read  5.  I am most impressed with the book's comprehensive coverage of the subject matter.  The book details critical steps needed to enable an algorithmic trading strategy, without the reader losing sleep at night.   The book doesn't dive too deep into theory and math with many readers having that background, conversely, it provides readers with theoretical justifications and how to implement them efficiently. Reviewer BioBrian Schneider holds a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering and a Master of Science in financial engineering. He has 25 years of experience in systems engineering, software design and architecture, algorithm performance, data science, and analytics. He has a passion for financial markets and automating algorithmic trading systems and co-founded an investment management company in that space.
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