Good Linux distro...

timothyb89

timothyb89

New Member
I recently remembered an old computer I have, and I've finally decided to install Linux on it. And I want a good distro, that somone has tried or knows that it works. Also, it wold be helpful to know a few things about what I can do, and how to do it. Mostly how to install programs, and where to get good programs. Just so everyone knows, the computer is an old Windows 95/Gateway 2000. I think a compact version of Linux would be best, because the computer doesn't have a very large hard drive, and hardly any space on it at all, and I'll need to clear a large amount of junk to my portable HD. The computer's HD has 2 partitions, so I can move all the things on a partition to the other. Also, since I have tried installing Linux on another computer, that it tends to cause boot issues. I think I'll need some software to back up the hard drive, so I'll try to find some, but I'll take ideas. Also, the computer is old, Windows 95, so I might even delete windows, so I also want to know how to do that, but how to get it back if I change my mind later on (it will have a backup on the portable HD of the entire disk on it). If there is anything else I should know about Linux and Windows on the same computer, please tell me. Thanks to anyone that helps.
 
ok. i'll make it a little more simple...

What is a good Linux distro, that to works with Win. 95/Gateway 2000 computers? Also, I would like to know how to run and install Linux progams.

Hope thats a little easier to answer...
 
Here is my advice. The only real Linux experience that I have is with SuSE. If you are installing it on an old computer you might want to go with XFCE desktop environment instead of KDE.

There are many ways to install software on Linux. SuSE is a RPM based distro so I usually look for RPMs. You can also compile from source.

I suggest taking things one step at a time.
 
http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/

Its a quiz that tells you which distro is best for you. Or you could go to http://distrowatch.com/dwres.php?resource=major and pick one from the right side.

The right distro also depends on your computer. If you have a low ram such as 64 mb, it would be wise to go with vector linux or Damn Small Linux (works well with 16 ram or greater).

For installation, there are two basic forms of installation. Graphic and text -based. graphic is better for the newbie and textbase is for does who know what their doing or they don't care about their computer. All linux distro have a manuel for installation.

Good Luck, mate
 
thanks for the replies. i'll check them out and see what I can do for th old computer. does anyone know a site with linux help?
 
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