Linux distributions come in 2 main versions. They are either a live CD/DVD version which allow you to try the operating system without installing it or an installable version. Some distributions (versions) of linux come in both versions. Linux distributions vary in size from a floppy disc to several cd's or dvd's. Debian for example currently runs to 15 cd's.
We can provide a custom built pc with linux pre-installed as a cheaper alternative to Microsoft Windows. We will also supply the distribution on backup discs for your future use. You will soon be able to buy copies of these distribution on disc from our online shop to save the download time at very attractive prices.
What are the advantages of Linux? - One big advantage of linux is because the majority of it is open source (free) there are thousands of packages to do just about anything you could want a computer to do. With the majority of distributions there are a large number of contributors who constantly develop the software and add new features and programs and fix bugs or faults. Most of the linux distributions use "common" software packages such as the "Gnome" desktop. There are also a lot of support forums and "free" technical advice available. Linux is such a versatile operating system that a lot of every day devices already run it. Most households will use at least one device which runs a version of linux. Most Internet or broadband routers run a version of linux as well as some consumer electronics devices such as dvd players and home cinema units. If you do not feel comfortable switching to Linux immediately then most distributions can be installed to dual boot with another operating system such as windows xp.
Ubuntu - This is currently the most popular version of Linux. It is ideally suited to new or inexperienced users. This is a version of linux which the author promises will remain free forever. It is ideal for new users and comes in a number of versions. Ubuntu is based on the Debian core and is offered in pc or apple macintosh versions. It is also available in either "live" or installable versions. They also produce a version called Xubuntu for slower computers, Edubuntu targeted at the educational market and Kubuntu which is based on the kde desktop.
Suse - This distribution comes in 2 versions. There is a paid version and a free version (open-suse). This is a very comprehensive distribution with a lot of software packages supplied as standard. This is also very good for beginners and experienced users alike.
Fedora - This is a linux distribution funded by red hat software who produce a popular paid version of linux in the form of red hat enterprise. This is again fairly easy to install and currently comprises 5 cd's with lots of software packages. The installation is fully customisable for the more experienced user
Mepis - This is a debian linux based on Ubuntu. This will boot from cd and allow you to try the operating system before installing it to your system. It is more difficult to install than ubuntu if you wish to have a dual boot configuration with another operating system. This is my personal preference for ease of use once installed. Support is not as plentiful for this distribution as some of the others. This is currently up to 4 cd's if you want all the extra packages. There is also a version for Apple Macintosh under development.
Pclinuxos - This is currently only available as a beta or test version although a full stable release should be available shortly. This is not recommended for installing on a pc that you use for everday use as it may be unstable.
Mandriva - This has reasonable good reviews although I have never personally tried it. This is not updated as often as some of the other distributions.
Debian - This is currently the largest linux distribution and is not recommended for beginners. The current release runs to 15 cd's and 15,490 seperate packages. Once installed it is a very good distribution although if you need an easier linux with the benefit of the debian core then I would suggest that you try the ubuntu distribution.
Damn Small Linux - This is one of the smallest distibutions at a mere 50mb. If you have an old pc in the corner that you thought was no longer useful then this may be for you. It is a very good os for the size and has a nice balance of applications. You can also run it from within windows.
Slackware - This is one of the oldest distributions although it is not updated very often. Probably not suitable for inexperienced users.
There are several hundreds of other main Linux distributions available. I have tried to list the most popular by number of downloads. There are also a number of distributions for specific purposes such as media playback or hard firewalls, webservers etc. I personally use a linux firewall in front of my main firewall on my business network.
