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<!DOCTYPE preface PUBLIC "-//Samba-Team//DTD DocBook V4.2-Based Variant V1.0//EN" "http://www.samba.org/samba/DTD/samba-doc">
<preface lang="en-US">
<title>About the Cover Artwork</title>
<para>
The cover artwork of this book continues the freedom theme of the first edition of <quote>The Official Samba-3
HOWTO and Reference Guide</quote>. We may look back upon the past to question the motives of those who have
gone before us. Seldom do we realise that the past owes us no answer, and despite what we may think of the
actions of those who have travelled lifes' road before us, we must feel a sense of pride and gratitude for
those who, in the past, have protected our liberties.
</para>
<para>
Developments in information technology continue to move at an alarming pace. Human nature causes us
to adopt and embrace new developments that appear to answer the needs of the moment, but that can entrap
us at a future date. There are many examples in the short history of information technology. MS-DOS was
seen as a tool that liberated users from the tyrany of large computer system operating costs, and that
made possible the rapid progres we are beneficiaries of today. Yet today we are inclined to look back with
disdain on MS-DOS as an obsolete and constraining technology that belongs are an era that is best
forgotten.
</para>
<para>
The embrace of Windows networking, Windows NT4, and MS Active Directory in more recent times, may seem
modern and progressive today, but sooner or later something better will replace them. The current
preoccupation with extended identity management solutions and with directories is not unexpected.
The day will come that these too will be evaluated, and what may seem refreshing and powerful may
be better recogized as the chilly winds of the night. To argue against progress is unthinkable,
no matter what may lie ahead.
</para>
<para>
The development of Samba is moving forwards. The changes since Samba 3.0.0 are amazing, yet many
users would like to see more and faster progress. The benefits of recent developments can be realized
quickly, but documentation is necessary to unlock the pandoras' box. It is our hope that this book
will help the network administrator to rapidly deploy the new features with minimum effort. As you
deploy and gain mileage from the new enablement, take the time to think through what may lie ahead.
Above all, take stock of the freedom of choice that Samba provides in your world, and enjoy the new
potential for seamless interoperability.
</para>
</preface>
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