To linux or uh er to what linux?

[Linear]

I've narrowed my two choices to Suse & Mandrake OS. My question is of security, usability, and did I say security? Not too saavy with linux understanding, but would very much appreciate a knowledgable approach to such a decision. ;) :p ;)

[Tyr-7BE]

It's impossible to get a compromise between out-of-the-box security and out-of-the-box user-friendliness. I'd say go with Mandrake until you get comfortable with linux, then attempt a Debian install for an airtight distro.

[TacKat]

'Drake is easy enough to install and once you get used to Linux you can make a decently secure system out of it. It can't touch something like Slack or Debian for straight configuration power though.

[j.harrison]

Installing Drake 8 by booting from the CD is easier & quicker than Windows. The GUI is very newbie friendly, and Mandrake is a great place to learn Linux.

:cool: Mandrake :cool:

[Dark Ninja]

Also, you can head to Tucows (http://www.tucows.com/) or any other site that offers Linux programs and get yourself a firewall. (AND BEFORE I GET FLAMED) I know that a firewall alone will not make you secure, but it can keep you protected from the "script kiddies" and people who are just testing for basic holes in your system until you get more comfortable.

Dark Ninja

[snivlle]

I've been a Mandrake user since a couple of years now. I have personally found it to be a fine distribution . I've also installed and used Debian Linux 2.2. Not only is Mandrake much more user friendly, but it also supports a lot of different kinds of software. It really isn't too difficult to find "mdk" specific RPMs for most current Linux software.

I have found it to be VERY secure and easy to deploy within a networked environment. It's "easy as pie" Internet Connection Sharing is easier to set up than is Microsoft's. The Mandrake "TinyFirewall" front-end configuration tool for configuring the Bastille (iptables) firewall rules set couldn't be easier. Unless you need a "Rock of Gibralter" File Server implimentation, Mandrake is not only the easiest, but also one of the strongest Linux distributions available.

When comparing features, user friendliness, security, availability, support base, proven longevity, and a respectable record of stability, Mandrake holds up well against other ditributions.

Albeit Slackware and Suse do indeed afford greater "horse power", as it were, they are considerably less self-invoking and user friendly than Mandrake 8.

Chucky Allen
(Comptia certified technician)
Registered Programmer

[ 16 August 2001: Message edited by: snivlle ]

[Linear]

My true problem is I traditionally outgrow most things I play with! I Want something that will be My OS for future rather than an a starter kiddie linux set. Ill drop in 3-6 months laughing! :cool:

[slacker_x]

The majority of experienced linux users choose slackware or debian.

If you aren't afraid of a little pain, try one of those. If they are too challenging to start out with, you can always try another distro.

[evulish]

:cool: Debian :cool: