Best Linux for a noob...

[PC101]

I admit it... I'm a Linux noob!

So, not wishing to remain a noob.... what version of Linux would you recommend to me as a first step to learning?

I'm thinking I will partition my harddrive and put Linux on one part. Ya think that's the way to go??

Thanks!

Lyte

[Jordan]

I recommend going with Suse 10. I just finished an install yesterday on an old computer I had laying around. I turned it into a file server (for pictures and database backups). The install is painless. Very easy, just put the first CD in and follow the steps.

It comes with YAST which makes setting up new features and hardware very easy for noobs.

Partitioning your HD would be a good move, that or use VMWare and have a virtual machine. My first Linux install was on a partitioned HD using Slackware 3 something. I don't recommend slackware.

You could also just download a live CD/DVD. With these you don't have to install anything and just insert the Cd/DVD. It loads a Linux up and you can play with it just like you had it installed.

[TkTech]

Ubunut is always an easy one, since it was specificly designed for begginers to advanced users. As well, theyll ship you a FREE live/install cd, anywhere in the world.

[brackett]

Yeah, one of the various flavors of Knoppix or Ubuntu will (hopefully) save you the joys and pain of getting X set up for your video card. They both have above average hw detection IME.

[RobSoftware]

I like Mandrake. If you are planning on doing a full install you may want to consider this.

[htmlmaster]

I'd say Ubuntu or Mandriva. Both are pretty easy to install.

[DevilsCharm]

Wait, so you can have half your computer on Windows and the other half on Linux? That's amazing.

[PC101]

Originally Posted by DevilsCharm

Wait, so you can have half your computer on Windows and the other half on Linux? That's amazing.

Yup yup, you can quarter your computer and have 4 different operating systems if you want!

The different sections are called "partions". If you think you might want to do this... do a lil reading first. It can get a lil hairy but it's a neat lil feature! Peep this thead for more info.

Lyte

[TkTech]

Yup yup, you can quarter your computer and have 4 different operating systems if you want!

Or more, limited only by some older chipsets. I have 42 distros ( some just different versions, ie: about 5 versions of dsl release canadites ) currently installed. Im sure one or two are missing...when I reinstall lilo I swear I missed some...

[dirkfirst]

Originally Posted by TkTech

Or more, limited only by some older chipsets. I have 42 distros ( some just different versions, ie: about 5 versions of dsl release canadites ) currently installed. Im sure one or two are missing...when I reinstall lilo I swear I missed some...

You have 42 seperate installations on one HD?