What Is the Best Version of Linux for Newbies?

What is the best version of Linux? This question continues to be asked by novices to open source operating systems and by people who are contemplating a partial or full switch to Linux. First, it should be understood that, technically, a version of Linux isn't the same as a distribution, also called a distro, or flavor of Linux. Version can refer to the different versions available within the same distro or it can refer to a release of that distro. Most all of them release a new version at set intervals. For example, the Fedora distribution releases a new version of their open source operating system approximately every six months. Each release is a version, but the distribution remains the same- Fedora. Although it's probably best to ask what the best distribution is, experienced Linux users should understand what's meant by the question, "What is the best version of Linux?"

The numerous Linux distributions in existence revolve around a core known as the kernel. This is why they all have many things in common such as file system, presence of the vi editor, incompatibility with win/soft modems, etc. However, each distro can also have sharp differences, capabilities and design because they were born from an idea, a specific purpose that a developer or group of developers had in mind. One of the most important things to keep in mind when asking, "What is the best version of Linux?" is that just as the developer coded the system according to plans, users of the distro would do well to choose it based on those plans.

Unfortunately, some Linux users who are firm believers in certain distros criticize the use of others. Such criticism can cause confusion in newbies who don't have enough familiarity with Linux to distinguish fact from critical opinion. A distro that works fine and suits the needs of one user might not work for another. You'll want to choose a system that's right for your computing needs, regardless of anyone else's criticism or opinion of your choice, especially if they're not going to help you if something goes wrong.

If you have little or no experience working with Linux, you might do well to ask yourself (and answer) some or all of the following questions. Your responses will prove valuable in helping you to decide.

1. Are you a newbie to Linux?

2. Do you need a totally free distro or are you willing to pay a fee (not all distros are free of charge)?

3. Are your computing needs business or personal or both?

4. Would you prefer a distro that's available in a language other than English?

5. How do you connect to the Internet?

6. Do you tend to opt for very economically priced hardware? Cheap printers can be a problem.

7. How much help is available when you have questions? Don't forget that there are community forums for just about every distribution out there. You can visit them as a guest to see how supportive and knowledgeable the members are.

8. What machine will you use and is it legacy hardware?

9. Are you comfortable working on a command line or do you always have to have a Graphical User Interface (GUI)?

10. Do you have to continue using programs made to be run under Windows?

As you consider the answers to the ten questions above, consider the list of Linux operating system below and the brief information given about each. Most all of them can be purchased very economically from www.DiscountLinuxDVD.com or downloaded from a number of mirror sites easily located with a Google search. Remember that the real answer to the question of which is the best version of Linux is usually a personal and opinionated one, and this is how it should be if you're the only one who'll use it. If you must share work with others or a change would inconvenience them, simply consider everyone's input. Take advantage of the many distros now available as live Compact Discs (CD's) so you can try a system without actually installing it. Working with it in live mode can't give you the exact same experience as working with it actually installed, but it'll give you an idea.