Linux For Newbies/Choosing A Distro

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[edit] Choosing A Distro

There are dozens of different Linux distributions. Here are some ways to help you narrow down the options to a short list.

• How do you intend to use the system? For example, if you are wanting to build a specialized network system, such as a firewall or router, this could be very decisive in limiting your choice to a few distributions that specialize in this functionality.
• Try out a few LiveCDs of different distributions. Does it recognize and work properly with your hardware?
• Which applications or desktop environment are important to you? Does a given distribution install those programs by default or is it easy to install and integrate them with the rest or your system?
• If you intend to install Linux on a low-end specification computer, or you have other peculiar hardware compatibility problems or requirements, your choice might be influenced by this need.

• Try a distro chooser, like http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/ or http://www.tuxs.org/chooser/

Often several different distributions will meet all your requirements.

Your final choice from the short list may be based on whim or personal taste.