Linux Distributions

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A linux distribution contains the Linux kernel, drivers, utilities, documentation, and a varied selection of tools, libraries, and applications. A spring 2001 issue of Linux Journal reported that there are well over a hundred distributions of Linux. Some distributions are small enough to fit on a single floppy disk (and have very few features), Other distributions come with a plethora of documentation, tools, and applications; and can fill several CD-ROMs.

Currently the best-known distributions are probably:
Red Hat, Suse, and Caldera are considered by many to be the easier packages to install and run. Also, the user manuals for these are considered by many to be the most readable and useful. These and other distributions can often be found at stores such as CompUSA, J&R, or Staples.

You might also find them at a bookstore within the computer section. Before you go to the store, check the website of the distribution you want, and make a not of the version number. The store might have an older version (especially books stores) and the most recent version will usually be the easiest one to work with.

For someone new to Linux, it is usually best to get one of the easier distributions in a complete package with the full installation manual. And, if possible, to get help from a friend who has installed the same package on their own machine.

After you have installed one of the easier distributions, and have become confident about your Linux skills, you might want to try one or more of the other distributions.
Some distributions come without a printed manual, and most can be downloaded from a web site. Both of these are ways to save money, but are not advised for a newbie. You'll really appreciate that manual during your first install.

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The following web sites contain directories of some (or most) of the distributions available.
Linux Weekly News
LWN carries news about the most recent distribution releases, as well as a listing of known distributions and other lists of distributions.
LinuxHQ
LinuxHQ maintains an extensive listing of Linux distributions with commentaries on each. LinuxHQ also has links to other directories of distributions, which may contain their own commentaries.
Linux Journal
Frequently has articles reviewing the major distributions.
When you're on-line check the index of their sister publication Linux Gazette for on-line articles about individual distributions.

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This page last updated on May 8, 2001 by Ruth Shanen