Want to learn Linux

[JohnD]

I want to learn Linux, but I am unable to locate a site where it easily downloaded. Can anyone reccommend a one?


thanks,

JohnD

[sicarie]

I want to learn Linux, but I am unable to locate a site where it easily downloaded. Can anyone reccommend a one?


thanks,

JohnD

That depends on the level of difficulty you want on an installation.

You can go anywhere from easy (Fedora Core 6/Ubuntu) to moderate (Debian) to hard (Gentoo).

The last two will involve (Gentoo more than Debian) quite a bit of configuration and knowledge of your system (to get the right drivers and configuration), and Gentoo will also take quite a bit of time. However, it a good way to go to REALLY learn a system inside and out.

If you want to get more comfortable with commands, programs, and capabilities, and are not too familiar with the current inner workings of your computer (basically, if you can't tell me your brand of video card - which you will need to know for a Debian install), I would recommend Fedora Core 6.

::update::

Another option is to download and burn either Ubuntu's live CD or a Knoppix live CD. These will allow you to reboot your computer into a Linux operating system that resides in the buffer memory of your computer - it won't require a reinstall. You can use that to get acquainted with Linux, and then decide which flavor (version) to use.

[Motoma]

Ubuntu is probably the best distro to grab for Linux beginners.
As well as being a well rounded distro, they have a very friendly and active help forum.

[knightrider]

I'm happy with Ubuntu. Easy install, easy to install packages, and lots of documentation online.