[PlUc]

hello i have no use for linux, but more out of curiousity. so im looking for afree linux version so i could try on my computer. what would be the recommended version to use

[twotugs]

You could start with Red Hat 9, if you want to install Linux on your hard drive, or just run Knoppix from a CD without installing.

Both, and more, are available for download here.

If you're looking to buy the CDs from a store, either pick up Red Hat for Dummies (comes with CDs), or get Red Hat or Mandrake. Be forewarned, Red Hat will be discontinuing support for many of its products in April or May.

I saw Mandrake 9.2 came bundled with one of the Linux mags this month (LinuxWorld or Everything'sLinux or some such title); you could pop into a Borders and see if it's still on the shelf.

Good luck! Have fun!


edit: On second thought, stay away from the Mandrake 9.2. I do believe it has some hardware issues.

[lynch]

I just saw a Fedora Core 1 Starter Kit for Dummies in the bookstore the other day. It contained the Fedora release on a DVD. There may be a version with CDs instead.
lynch

[Burbank]

The magazine was "Linux Format" that gave away Mandrake 9.2..The hardware problem is moot for me,the Driver problem was fixed by downloading a new one..December issue of "PC Answers" has a distro CD of about 50 new drivers..Virus free..Issue #33 of "LinuxUser & Developer"(DEC?) has a free set of Red Hat 9(3CD) $12USD.."PC Utilities is very good....You could always get a copy of "Slackware"..The original Linux distro updated...Another Open Source OS is "BSD"..It is fun to play with,stable,& close to Unix..Almost all UK mags have free Distros every month,a good deal..SuSE is a good version of Linux..They are slowly moving into treating the private citizen as an asset..The server & University system is their cash cow..Now that Hollywood is moving to Linux on Dells/HP's..They have their way to push Linux in the USA..Some of the Screenwriting software is coming out for Linux..There is a fun world outside of Windows..Try it...

[Cookies]

Late in the thread; but, I like SuSE -- which tends to be predominant in Euro (and I am not).

Linux is open source and you can download most distros (versions) here:
http://www.linuxiso.org/

Before you reinstall your operating system or dual/tri boot, consider burning Knoppix to a CD, boot to it (fits on a single CDR), and leave your Windows alone until you determine if you like it.

[Akito]

I'm a fan of mandrake - but have not tried many other distros.

[lock2910]

I just uninstalled SuSe it is my first install of linux and I am a little disappointed because it seems so slow, I am running an AMD 500, I thought it may be ok for this slower processor. What gives is this usual response for 500 processor?