One of the biggest selling points for making the move to Linux and Open Source software is the choices you are given. Whether it be the initial setup of your system or the software you install afterwards, you have complete control over your system. Linux and Open Source software are all about giving the end-user the freedom to install what he or she wants. Tailor your system to your exact needs and install only the software you need to complete your tasks. In the following sections we will take a look at several Linux distributions and what their intended focus is. Each has a very specific target audience and the OS (Operating System) has been streamlined to perform the tasks needed by that specific user quickly, easily, and efficiently.
One of the more popular types of Linux distributions is the general purpose desktop. The focus of this type of Linux Distribution is to allow the user to install the system and have a basic OS that will allow them to perform the most common tasks immediately after the install without the need to install additional software. A web browser, an e-mail client, an IM client, an IRC client, a word processor, and a graphics program are all part of the default install.
Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Fedora, OpenSUSE and Mandriva are all general purpose desktop distributions that do an excellent job of meeting the needs of their specific users. These users are looking for a basic Linux distribution that will allow them to browse the internet, check their e-mail, and chat using their favorite IM (Instant Messenger) protocol. Following the install of these general purpose Linux distributions the user has the freedom to install whatever software they want using the distributions package manager. You have the freedom to install what you want, when you want, with no restrictions on what your final system configuration will look like. These Linux distributions are perfect for the new Linux user, users making the switch from Windows, and anyone looking for a low maintenance Linux distribution to perform everyday tasks with ease.