Linux CD's

As and when we have further distributions available we will have them posted on our other linux distributions page. We are offering a range of various distributions for the pc and for different architectures. If there is something you want, which is not here, contact me, and I will see if I can help.

Obtaining your first Linux distribution.

The hard thing about linux is knowing where to start.

Not only that, but the way that Linux works seems very different and difficult for the novice.

Thankfully several companies, most notably Icepack, Libranet, Red Hat and Mandrake have developed distributions with install and set up routines which make the whole process of starting as a novice on the Linux road so much easier.

The real beauty of Linux only becomes apparent once you actually start setting up your machine the way you want it. There are so many options and possibilities that you learn very quickly about how to change settings and configurations.

It's only in the last few years that workable graphical interfaces have become easier to set-up and use, as has good hardware detection and support. This makes the whole process a lot more hassle free for the novice.

Two other events that have helped convert users to Linux, is the emergence of linux systems which will run under Windows and systems which will run exclusively from a CDrom drive. Both of these methods of operation allow users to get a feel for the operating system without making any modifications to the regular disk partitions.

Linux systems which run under Windows such as DragonLinux and WinLinux coexist on your existing windows/dos partitions. Perhaps not as efficient or elegent as a system running on a separate partition, but an excellent method of finding out more about Linux before committing to the scary step of actually preparing a disk partition for Linux to reside on. When you speak to people about altering the structure of their hard drive in order to run a different Operating System, many of us run a mile in the opposite direction.

To make it even less frightening, two companies, that come to mind, (SuSe and Knopper - Knoppix) have built a distribution as mentioned earlier, which will run entirely from a CD.

So the novice has several easy choices to try before they start changing partitions.

If you don't want to install anything on your hard drive go for a Knoppix or SuSe CD. Try it for a while, and if you like it, you can take the next step and try a fuller distribution which needs its own dedicated partition.

If your're happy installing onto your Windows partition, try a copy of DragonLinux or WinLinux.

A good one to start with might be Peanut because it's a relatively small distribution (about 400 MB install size). Libranet 2.0 Essential Edition single CD is not as up to date or as comprehensive as the latest version 2.7, but is a great desktop.

More information about basic setup and install of your new Linux system can be found here.

If you're ready for a fuller distribution (or distro - in linux shorthand lingo), try Libranet 2.7 or our new Icepack 2.75. You most likely don't need the source disks, but they are there if you want them at a later stage.

Although I am not a Linux guru by any means, if you need some help I am happy to answer any simple questions you may have about starting out on the Linux path.