How to get
From TheLinuxVault
Contents |
[edit] First, some words/general rules for New Linux Users
There are many, many different distributions (variations of the software that is included with the core of Linux, the kernel). If you are just starting out, you may find that you do not like a particular distribution. If so, don't give up. Just try another distribution.
In searching for a distribution that best fits your needs, you may want to experiment with LiveCDs. LiveCD distributions allow you to run the operating system directly from a CD or DVD, without installing anything on your hard drive. This way, you can play around with the operating system, before deciding whether to install it on your system. However, remember that when running a LiveCD from the CD, before it is installed to the hard drive, it will probably run much slower than when it is installed. View a list of LiveCD distributions.
[edit] Installing Software
For help with installing software, see Software and Package Management
[edit] Getting Help
If you have a question, search around (google is the greatest resource, currently). Somebody has probably run into the problem before. If you do not find an answer, ask. When asking, always be sure to clearly state your problem, share what you have already attempted, and provide any additional information that may assist you. Look up your distribution on TheLinuxVault for information on how to get distribution-specific help, and places you can ask for help (there is a list of distributions on the Linux page).
[edit] openSUSE
The openSUSE project is a worldwide community program sponsored by Novell that promotes the use of Linux everywhere. The program provides free and easy access to openSUSE. Here you can find and join a community of users and developers, who all have the same goal in mind — to create and distribute the world's most usable Linux. openSUSE also provides the base for Novell's award-winning SUSE Linux Enterprise products. openSuse is easily accessible to new users, and has extensive documentation available. It uses Yum, an rpm package manager. openSuse installs KDE by default.
[edit] Gentoo
Gentoo is a free operating system based on either Linux or FreeBSD that can be automatically optimized and customized for just about any application or need. Extreme configurability, performance and a top-notch user and developer community are all hallmarks of the Gentoo experience. Not recommended for new users, since its installation process is highly technical.
[edit] Debian
Self-described as "The Universal Operating System", this distribution is one of the oldest and largest, and attempts to embody a philosophy of freedom and quality through its community and policies. Debian always maintains three versions: stable, testing, and unstable; depending on the balance of stable and bleeding edge software desired. Although often described as an "experts-only" distribution, many of the easier to use distributions choose to build off of Debian due to its excellent reputation and tools.
[edit] PCLinuxOS
PCLinuxOS is a fantastic distribution for users who are thinking about making the switch from Windows into Linux. Download the LiveCD from the website and see how easy to use this distribution is. Then, once you're ready, select to install, and a built-in wizard will walk you through the process of getting set up.
[edit] Ubuntu
Ubuntu is a community developed, Linux-based operating system that is perfect for laptops, desktops and servers. It contains all the applications you need - a web browser, presentation, document and spreadsheet software, instant messaging and much more. Ubuntu is free software. You can learn more about what this means by reading our licensing. Ubuntu is arguably the most user friendly Linux distribution, with the sort of attention to detail which users of Mac or Windows may have come to expect, making setup far easier for the novice than many other Linuxes. There is an abundance of documentation for everything you'd want to do. It installs the gnome desktop by default, but other derivatives may install KDE (in Kubuntu) or xcfe (in Xubuntu, a more lightweight version for older machines).
Get Ubuntu Studio, a fuller version intended for audio and video editing
[edit] Fedora
Fedora is a Linux-based operating system that showcases the latest in free and open source software. Fedora is always free for anyone to use, modify, and distribute. It is built by people across the globe who work together as a community: the Fedora Project. The Fedora Project is open and anyone is welcome to join.
The Fedora Project is out front for you, leading the advancement of free, open software and content. Learn more.
[edit] Linux Mint
Linux Mint is directly based on Ubuntu, but requires less post-install configuration, so it is easier for a beginner to just "install and go". It also has a more Windows-like interface (it only has one taskbar). It is about 100% compatible with Ubuntu, which is compatible with Debian, so most programs designed for Debian and its derivatives will work with Linux Mint.
