Which linux version should I get?

[Gemini]

Hi guys, I am an extreme newbie when it comes to Linux on my PC, I have been with windows for so long but now since I bought I new pc with tons of hard drive space I am planning on partitioning the drive and installing a version of Linux. I was initially planning on the new kernel of RedHat, 7.1 I believe but I found that Mandrake claims to be easier to install and use. Well there is the dilemma, I have lots of Windows experience as well as some novice experience with Unix and a variety of programming languages. I am wondering if Redhat is strictly for the experienced Linux user, if so, is Mandrake the option for me. On the other hand I dont want an OS that gets boring because it is too user friendly. Also how feasible is it to locate ans install all of ones drivers and for video and adsl modems. Is this to much for the novice? :confused:

[plasmid]

startout with mandrake till you get familiar, then switch to something better...such as debian (or my favorite, Libranet, which is a great revision on debian).

-plasmid

[kmj]

http://www.linuxnewbie.org/nhf/intel/distros/distronhf.html


take a look here, though I suggest you take plasmid's advice.

[Lend273]

I agree, go for Libranet.

Len

[Tyr-7BE]

I dunno what Libranet's install is like, but Mandrake is typically a great starting location...designed for a newbie.

[Craig McPherson]

Debian, Progeny, or Libranet.

Debian if you're confident with your computer skills. One of the other two if you want a shallower learning curve.

Those the only ones that have my approval.