Linux for a beginner

[aintnothang]

I run vista and ubuntu dual boot.

[overmark]

I have been using Ubuntu on an off over the last two years. I have it as dual boot now, only because my wife doesn't like using Linux. I find myself using Ubuntu most of the time because it boots fast and shuts down just as fast. Took me 5 minutes today to shut down Vista! There are plenty of free alternatives to the software on XP/Vista and you can achieve most tasks.

Datech is right about the help out there, I have been able to solve most problems with the help on the forums. I have found with Ubuntu 8.10 most of the old bugs and issues have disappeared and I found myself at the command line less.

Good luck

[nevermind1534]

Took me 5 minutes today to shut down Vista!

Vista starts up and shuts down really fast for me. That's probably because there isn't a ton of crap that loads at startup, though.

[Datech]

Here's a good website to help you out with ubuntu:

http://www.knowliz.com/2008/09/20-th...ng-ubuntu.html

[gramatton]

Well, just like everyone else has said, Ubuntu is pretty much great for beginners. In fact, I'm writing this post from my Asus eee running Ubuntu.

On the other hand if you are looking for something super easy to use to just try linux out its worth checking out PuppyLinux. Its a great little distribution, runs great even on ancient hunks, and it can fit on a 128mb flash drive(tutorial on their site for putting it on one). And you can take that flash drive to another computer and use your install.

Well just my 2cents.

Gramatton out

[aintnothang]

so wheres everyones rep??? just kidding.

[Cymae]

Just be very careful if you're dualbooting with multiple physical drives, It messed up my MBR when it tried to run the dual boot client. If you are going to run it on a second HDD UNPLUG YOUR WINDOWS HDD

[SXRguyinMA]

is Ubuntu also good for a server application? I picked up a dual P3 3u server setup and was thinking of running Linux on it, but I'm a complete noob to it, so it'll be a learning experience as well

[XcOM]

ubuntu client is good, and will work for a file server, but the server edition is very good for managing a network, but beware theres no GUI with the server edition

[Omega]

I suggest using Ubuntu or any of it's related distributions (I use, for example, Kubuntu 4.1.2). It's quick and easy to pick up, but still has a powerful engine. it's great for just starting out or even if you've been around the block a few times.