What type of linux desktop should i get?

Question

This will be my first time using one of these free and open source operating systems. However, I am pretty good with computers, so complexity isn't much of an issue (although I'd prefer a simpler option). Obviously, the first choice was ubuntu. However, I've considered Fedora (although it seems to be for experts and not newbies), OpenSUSE (idk any details about it), and Mint (which I don't know much about either).

Also, I know that Ubuntu and others update multiple times a year. Is upgrading easy? and is it just a matter of checking if the upgrade is available, and letting the OS do the work?

Thanks

Answer 1

I thoroughly recommend Linux Mint 9 Main Edition which is built upon Ubuntu 10.04 Its easy to install and easy to use plus it comes with much of the software you are likely to need preinstalled



Linux Mint 9 Download

http://www.linuxmint.com/edition.php?id=52



The Perfect Desktop - Linux Mint 9 (Isadora)

http://www.howtoforge.com/the-perfect-desktop-linux-mint-9-isadora



Linux Mint 9 User Guide Download pdf.

http://www.linuxmint.com/rel_isadora.php



Also worth considering is Linux Mint Debian (slightly more advanced than the Ubuntu based release)



Linux Mint Debian Download

http://www.linuxmint.com/edition.php?id=66



Alternatively install Linux Mint as a dual-boot with Windows using mint4win without partitioning mint4win works the same as Wubi as described below (not available on Linux Mint Debian)

http://www.psychocats.net/ubuntu/wubi



You keep Windows as it is, mint4win only adds an extra option to boot into Linux Mint. mint4win does not require you to modify the partitions of your PC, or to use a different bootloader, and does not install special drivers. It works just like any other application.



mint4win keeps most of the files in one folder, and if you do not like it, you can simply uninstall it as any other application.



Boot in to windows insert the Linux Mint LiveCD and you will offered the option of installing inside windows which is where the mint4win installer comes in, you will be asked how many gigabytes you wish to allocate to Linux Mint (I recommend 8gb) then you set a password for your installation then click install and thats it.



Once Linux Mint is fully installed upon starting your PC you will be given a choice of which operating system you want to use Windows or Linux Mint



You download the ISO. image of Linux Mint 9 or Linux Mint Debian then you need to create a Bootable LiveCD/DVD for installation



Linux Mint 9 and Linux Mint Debian can also be run direct from the LiveCD/DVD from Booting up without touching your Hard Drive









LUg.

Answer 2

I recommend Ubuntu or Mint.

Updating and upgrading Ubuntu is just a mouse click away. You will have to download some drivers to make things like video work. But this is easily done in the software center- just click on Ubuntu restricted extras for installation of these drivers.



A little easier is Linux Mint. The drivers are already installed.The only problem with Mint is that upgrading is a chore. The only way I could do it was to delete the old one and fresh install the new version. Updating is just a mouse click.

Now there is a new Mint being developed now that will be a running upgrade type. I believe it will be a little more techy than the old version.



I have tried about a dozen different Linux distros. Mint and Ubuntu always came out on top- by a long shot.

Answer 3

hi, there are a number of OS that are attainable in the industry and all at freed from fee I certainly have used linux and residing house windows i say that linux isn't in uncomplicated terms waiting for workstation yet in addition for servers and others. i say once you're a beginner decide for ubuntu linux

Answer 4

hi, there are a number of OS that are available contained available and all at freed from value I even have used linux and abode windows i say that linux isn't in basic terms waiting for laptop yet in addition for servers and others. i say in case you're a beginner choose for ubuntu linux

Answer 5

Ubuntu

Answer 6

Ubuntu, hands down. It updates similar to how windows update does. It's pretty simple once you get the hang of it.

Answer 7

Dont worry, download Ubuntu from ubuntu.com because it is the best consumer based linux desktop. I've personally tried it and its amazing. I've never felt windows faster than this linux edition.