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Linux Distributions
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Unlike Windows, there's no single Linux. Linux is composed of a core called Linux Kernel and GNU software built around it.
The Linux kernel is independently maintained by the Open Software Group headed by Linus Torvalds (inventor and writer of the first Linux kernel). This kernel manages all the internal workings of the operating system such as managing your processor, disks and so on.
The GNU software built around the kernel provides you with a usable system. It gives you the graphical display, desktop environment, applications such as free wordprocessor, spreadsheet, accounting package, web browser, email client and so on. You will be amazed at the variety of powerful and incredible applications that come with a Linux distro for free. You may not need to install anything additionally - a Linux distribution usually comes with everything. Even if you want to install something, theres a whole universe of free and open-source software resources on the Internet - I've listed a few of these as "Linux Resources" below.
Due to copyright concerns, most Linux distros do not support mp3 music, mpeg video, etc. But not to worry, because you can download mp3 plugin freely available on the web for supporting mp3 audio with XMMS (a winamp-like audio player) and a good Video software such as Mplayer for video support. Click here for more info on Video players.
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Fedora |
The official Fedora (previously Red Hat Linux) website
Comment: This is the most popular linux distribution the web backed by innumerable discussion forums and support groups. |
Mandrake |
Started in France, this Linux distro is most popular among desktop users. |
Debian |
This is the most comprehensively packaged Linux distribution. |
FreeBSD |
Developed originally by the University of Berkelys and bound by the most unrestrictive of licences, most organizations like to base their work on FreeBSD. |
Slackware |
Developed and used mostly by hackers, this is largely a programmers' Linux. Users love it for it's rich toolset, simplicity and stability. It requires some experience to set up and use. |
Gentoo Linux |
A relative new-comer, Gentoo has seen a fast-growing user base. |
Ubuntu Linux |
A new-comer, Ubuntu has become immensely popular among new Linux users. |
DeLi Linux |
The official DeLi distribution website
Comment: DeLi (Desktop Light) a small Linux disro especially suited for old computers (Intel 486 and above). It provides a full-featured system with very low system requirements. It is claimed to have been tested on an old 486 machine with 16MB of RAM and run smoothly. This distro may seem senseless at the first look, but considering the number of older 486, Pentium MMX 166, etc. machines that are still around it makes perfect sense to have this distro around. |
Vector Linux |
Vector Linux is a small, fast, non-source Slackware-based Linux disro. |
Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) |
RHEL is a commercially supported Linux. It is highly fine-tuned for enterprise use. If you require some serious support and are willing to shell out a little dough for it, this is the Linux for you. Mind you, their support is known to pull customers out of tough situations in record time. |
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LinuxISO.org is a website from where you can download ISO images for most of major distributions in one place. An ISO image can be downloaded and burnt on a CD from which you can install your favorite Linux distribution. They can also reach you the CDs at a small price if you are willing to pay.
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