Until you have some experience with Linux, it is almost impossible to decide which Linux distro best fits your needs. Until you have the confidence to go your own way, we suggest:

• If you have a friend or relative that is a knowledgeable about Linux and Open Source Software, ask for his/her advice.

• If there is a local Linux Users Group (LUG) near you, visit them and take their advice. They can help you over the initial head-scratching stage. If it isn't convenient to attend their meetings, consider joining their mailing list.

• Pick a distribution with an active forum. Ubuntu, openSUSE, or Fedora are reasonable suggestions.

• If none of the above appeals to you, we suggest one of the Commercial “getting started” distro's such as Linspire, Xandros, or MEPIS

Here are three Linux distributions that we have used and like.

• Ubuntu - Comprehensive, Stable, "Just Works" - ideal for desktop or laptop.
• CentOS - Basically a commercial product with branding removed. Stable, Powerful and Full featured. Ideal for servers.
• Suse - If you want commercial support at a price to match