There are several Linux distributions available, so which one should the beginner choose? Linux installation becomes easier for each new version of the distributions. Fedora/Red Hat is the most common distribution, and you will find lots of software readily available for it. However, Fedora/Red Hat does not have the easiest installation procedure.

SuSE is another popular distribution, especially in Europe. SuSE is easier to install, it has a very user friendly graphical installation tool. SuSE also includes a bunch of sotware on the distribution CDs (or DVD). This will save time downloading applications! SuSE is also very quick to adopt new versions of applications, libraries etc. so if you want to be on the cutting edge of Linux development SuSE is a good choice.

You can even run Linux directly from a CD, without having to install anything on your PC. This will ofcourse slow down performance, but is a great way to take Linux for a test drive. Try for instance Knoppix!

Conclusion: If you are an experienced computer user and want to be able to download and install as many applications as possible from the Internet whitout too much hassle Fedora/Red Hat is for you! If you want as much software as possible to be available on the distribution CDs/DVD you should go for SuSE.