Choosing a Linux Distribution
Because anyone can build their own operating system based on the open source Linux operating system, there are many different variations of Linux, or Linux distributions, to choose from. Personally, I recommend the Ubuntu Linux distribution for two reasons:
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| Ubuntu's GUI is similar to Windows and Mac OS |
- Ubuntu’s GUI, or graphical user interface, is similar to Windows and Mac OS, making it simple for Windows and Mac users to learn to use.
- I’m completely biased! Ubuntu is the only desktop Linux distribution I use, so it would be difficult for me to recommend another distribution.
I’ll also be using Ubuntu for any tutorials I include in this blog, so if you’d like to follow along, it might be easier if you use Ubuntu too. However, there are many different Linux distributions to choose from. Other popular distributions include:
- Debian (http://www.debian.org/ )
- Fedora (http://fedoraproject.org/ )
- openSUSE (http://www.opensuse.org/ )
- Mandriva (http://www.mandriva.com/ )
Live CDs
Ultimately, choosing a Linux distribution is a matter of personal preference. Luckily, it is usually easy to try out a distribution out to see if you like it before you install it on your computer—all you have to do is boot the operating system from a live CD.
For information about booting Ubuntu from a live CD, go to https://help.ubuntu.com/community/LiveCD/ .
Installing Linux
For more information on installing Linux on your computer, I recommend starting with the “Learn Linux” section of Linux’s website (https://www.linux.com/learn). A quick Google search for “install Linux” or “Linux beginner’s guide” is a good way to find additional tutorials.
Also make sure to read the documentation available for whatever Linux distribution you choose. Ubuntu’s documentation can be found at http://www.ubuntu.com/support.
References
1. Distributions. Linux.com. Retrieved October 21, 2011, from https://www.linux.com/directory/Distributions
2. Popular Distributions. Linux.com. Retrieved October 21, 2011, from https://www.linux.com/directory/Distributions/popular-distributions
3. LiveCD. Ubuntu Documentation. Retrieved October 21, 2011, from https://help.ubuntu.com/community/LiveCD/
4. Learn Linux. Linux.com Retrieved October 21, 2011, from https://www.linux.com/learn
5. Ubuntu Support. Ubuntu.com. Retrieved October 21, 2011, from http://www.ubuntu.com/support
References
1. Distributions. Linux.com. Retrieved October 21, 2011, from https://www.linux.com/directory/Distributions
2. Popular Distributions. Linux.com. Retrieved October 21, 2011, from https://www.linux.com/directory/Distributions/popular-distributions
3. LiveCD. Ubuntu Documentation. Retrieved October 21, 2011, from https://help.ubuntu.com/community/LiveCD/
4. Learn Linux. Linux.com Retrieved October 21, 2011, from https://www.linux.com/learn
5. Ubuntu Support. Ubuntu.com. Retrieved October 21, 2011, from http://www.ubuntu.com/support
Your blog seems to be very well-organized, your blog posts well thought out and presented, and you seem very knowledgeable. The ease with which you discuss open source software is impressive! I'm able to intellectually stumble through your posts because I'm around ATEC majors a lot and spend a lot of time in the midst of computer scientist's discussions. I have a hard time following though because I'm not sure what everything you're saying means. For example, I'm not sure I even know what open source software is. I know what Linux is because I've heard the word, but I don't know the differences between any different types or brands of software. It may be helpful to provide the same information for the more knowledgeable reader, but add in some all-inclusive definitions for the everyday reader who may not know what something means. Other than that, great job on your blog, it's very focused, well backed up, and informative.
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