How to Choose Your First Linux Distribution

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Consider your hardware

   Try to find something that supports the specs of your computer and everything you have.
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   Step 2: especially your Internet connection.

   , A good distribution will have a compiler and linker (like GCC), a desktop environment, support for most hardware, and a packaging system (RPM, TGZ, DEB, etc.).
   
   Consider the other software you would like.
   
   Websites like http://www.distrowatch.com offer a comprehensive and up to date list of virtually all Linux distributions available. , Some (like Puppy Linux) even allow you to save to disc or USB if you have no hard drive installed. , Instead, either buy them online or buy or borrow a Linux book with a distribution included. , An active forum ensures a good source of help if problems should arise! , Some linux websites like Ubuntu even provide guides on how to run the md5sum command on the iso file. ,, The only thing you need to do now is reinsert the disc you just made and reboot the machine!
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   Step 3: If this is your first time using Linux consider trying Ubuntu or OpenSuSE.

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   Step 4: A distribution is basically a customized Linux kernel with a unique collection of software

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   Step 5: almost always containing GNU tools (hence the name

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   Step 6: GNU/Linux).

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   Step 7: One of the best ways to find a flavor of Linux that's just right for you and your hardware is a LiveDistro which allows you to boot and run on your hardware before you decide to install it!

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   Step 8: If you're on dial-up

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   Step 9: don't attempt to download distributions.

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    Step 10: It's also a very good idea to check the distribution's homepage and forum.

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    Step 11: If you download a distribution use the md5sum command to verify that your program is "correct."

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    Step 12: Burn the image file (.iso) "as an image" (not as a data disc) with disc authoring software (InfraRecorder or Nero)

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    Step 13: If everything went well

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    Step 14: you now have a bootable LiveDistro.

Detailed Guide

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