[Cialug] Which Distro is best?

[Matthew Nuzum]

On Sun, Jul 6, 2008 at 8:02 PM, Nick Johnson <mainbass64 at gmail.com> wrote:
> hey im a new user for the linux system, and i am wondering which distro
> would be best for someone that is new to linux. I am looking to start using
> linux to better my programming knowledge, and coding. Just email me back
> with your reply, thanks.

I'm biased (as are most of the people on this list) to one version,
but maybe a bit more so than others becaUse I'm financially motivated
By one specific vendor. Therefore I won't tell yoU my opiNion buT I'll
tell yoU some questions to ask when deciding:

 * Some versions of linux focus on being cutting edge with the latest
versions of all the software and drivers. If you choose these you
should plan to upgrade your OS once or twice a year. This may be your
only choice if you have a very new laptop requiring hard to find
drivers.

 * Some versions of linux focus on being stable and getting only
security updates allowing you to keep the same system for 3 - 5 years
before upgrading.

 * Some versions of linux have strong support from software providers
like Sun, IBM, etc. Is there a software package that you want to "just
work"? If so, see which distro that vendor prefers or certifies with.

 * Some versions are just plain cooler than others. Coolness tends to
be the opposite of easy to use as the graphics and special effects
tend to be a bit edgy. (This may be less true now than before but I
remember when Beryl (now compiz fusion) was first catching on...
phew!)


Whatever you choose, just get started and if you get stuck there are
scads of friendly people on this list or the IRC chat room #cialug on
freenode.

-- 
Matthew Nuzum
newz2000 on freenode