1.5.3. Which distribution should I install?
Prior to installation, the most important factor is your
hardware. Since every Linux distribution contains the basic
packages and can be built to meet almost any requirement (because
they all use the Linux kernel), you only need to consider if the
distribution will run on your hardware. LinuxPPC for example has
been made to run on MacIntosh and other PowerPCs and does not run
on an ordinary x86 based PC. LinuxPPC does run on the new Macs, but
you can't use it for some of the older ones with ancient bus
technology. Another tricky case is Sun hardware, which could be an
old SPARC CPU or a newer UltraSparc, both requiring different
versions of Linux.
Some Linux distributions are optimized for certain processors,
such as Athlon CPUs, while they will at the same time run decent
enough on the standard 486, 586 and 686 Intel processors. Sometimes
distributions for special CPUs are not as reliable, since they are
tested by fewer people.
Most Linux distributions offer a set of programs for generic PCs
with special packages containing optimized kernels for the x86
Intel based CPUs. These distributions are well-tested and
maintained on a regular basis, focusing on reliant server
implementation and easy installation and update procedures.
Examples are Debian, Ubuntu, Fedora, SuSE and Mandriva, which are
by far the most popular Linux systems and generally considered easy
to handle for the beginning user, while not blocking professionals
from getting the most out of their Linux machines. Linux also runs
decently on laptops and middle-range servers. Drivers for new
hardware are included only after extensive testing, which adds to
the stability of a system.
While the standard desktop might be Gnome on one system, another might offer
KDE by default. Generally, both
Gnome and KDE are available for all major Linux
distributions. Other window and desktop managers are available for
more advanced users.
The standard installation process allows users to choose between
different basic setups, such as a workstation, where all packages
needed for everyday use and development are installed, or a server
installation, where different network services can be selected.
Expert users can install every combination of packages they want
during the initial installation process.
The goal of this guide is to apply to all Linux distributions.
For your own convenience, however, it is strongly advised that
beginners stick to a mainstream distribution, supporting all common
hardware and applications by default. The following are very good
choices for novices:
Downloadable ISO-images can be obtained from
LinuxISO.org. The main
distributions can be purchased in any decent computer shop.
