suba

ok, linux virgin here.

where and what is a good linux to download and learn? i have download knoppix (running on CD) but just need another linux to install it.

stevem2k

www.distrowatch.com


I'd be tempted to go for opensolaris , but I'm biased

_Meridian_

iTrader: (1)

Redhat/Fedora is the best supported in terms of books etc, and the .rpm system of files is a Redhat invention. But don't try to install it as part of a dual-boot 'cos it will bork your partition table. It also uses Gnone as the default desktop, which is rubbish IMHO.

Mandrake is a good beginner distro, but the ones from 9.2 onwards have had some annoying features.

I personally like SUSE, but it needs a bit more Linux knowledge than the above two. But it's a good one to learn with

Debian is supposed to be the best for people who want to get serious, but it's a lot less newbie-friendly. But the users are generally very helpful .


M

suba

ok, got knoppix and linspire. will play around with it for now. so far so good

rmn

THE LINUX IS AT THE BOTTOM!

_Meridian_

iTrader: (1)

SUSE comes with Gnone, but default is KDE, which most distros use and I prefer. Some hard-core Linux peeps use things like Window Maker instead for that "uncluttered" look.

As for the command line, sooner or later you'll have to get to grips with it, because a) it's the only way to really understand Linux, and b) with some third-party software it's the only way of loading it. It's also a vital tool for getting yourself out of a hole - something which Linux makes very easy. Unlike Windows, Linux allows you to change pretty much anything in the OS, right down to which kernel you use. It's not easy, and you generally won't do it by accident, but the power is there.


M

suba

if you "like" windows XP, have a look at www.xpde.com

class_A

IMHO, Ubuntu is the way to go for Linux newbies. Great forums/community support, nice package management system, everything you need to get going. They do Live CD's as well if you want to try it out.

john_s

iTrader: (1)

I use Suse linux for messing about with. I found it easy enough to get up and running and for doing bits and pieces.

John.