Test Driving Linux

Linux-Like Linux

Linux-like distributions have long been the mainstay of the Linux world, and remain the most popular choices for both existing users and new users. These are the distributions to turn to if you are after a Unix-like work environment, if you enjoy tinkering with and customizing your OS, and if you are really interested in learning a new way to use the power of your computer, and not merely duplicating the functions of Windows on a different OS.

Debian

Debian is possibly the most respected Linux distribution. Started in 1993 by Ian Murdock, the name is a combination of his name and that of his wife, Debra. Debian is known for its community, openness, and adherence to free software principles. So strong is this philosophy that Debian has created a Social Contract, which you can view at http://www.debian.org/social_contract. Debian has an international community of developers, which means it comes in many languages, and that many support resources on the Web will have users who speak your language.

This distribution has long had the conflicting reputation of being difficult to install, but very easy to update, upgrade, and maintain. Debian Versions 3.1 and higher will include a new installer to make it easier to get this distribution on your computer.

Debian is a minimalist distribution. A Debian release defines a base set of programs that are necessary to have a working system, but after that, it is entirely up to the user which programs get installed. This philosophy, ...