From one beginner to another... (Score 1)

I was fortunate enough to attend the "Hacking Exposed:Live!" tutorial at Usenix2000 in San Diego, Ca. 3 weeks ago and can recommend "Hacking Exposed:"(McClure,Cambray & Kurtz,Osborne/Mcgraw-Hill, $39.99 ). My prior network security experience consisted of copying IPCHAINS scripts to rc.firewall, yet I had no problem understanding the material or applying the suggested counter measures. I have since purchased the book and found it even more informative and thorough.

You may also find SecurityFocus.com useful.