Want to abandon Microsoft? Or how about trying out a new OS? Linux is the easiest choice. Be warned that Linux and Windows are completely different Operating Systems, but with a some how-to help, reading and learning and searching for answers to your questions, and a little bit of effort, you too will be one of the many, many content Linux users out there, who enjoy its stability, efficiency, and configurability.

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Take inventory of your system

The first thing you should do is write down all the hardware that is currently in your system, it helps when a hardware detection goes wrong, or you have to specify which hardware you have.

Choose the right Distro for you

The second most important thing to do is to choose the right Linux Distribution for you. For newbies,I would recommend Mandrake Linux at http://mandrakelinux.com, Fedora Linux http://fedora.redhat.com, and SUSE Linux http://suse.com. If you are interested in using a version geared toward experienced sysadmins, I would recommend Slackware, Debian, or Gentoo, which give you extensive control over the configuration of your system. If you are on dial-up Ubuntu linux is a good choice. You can order free cds of their website. (This includes shipping and handling.) http://www.ubuntulinux.org. This ditrobution also includes a Live Cd that lets you give Ubuntu a try without installing it.

A good site that keeps track of all the Linux Distributions is http://www.distrowatch.com

BACK UP YOUR DATA!!!!

I can not emphasize this more. Repartitioning your hard disk is always risky, and it is better to be safe then sorry when installing a new OS.

Dual Booting

Don’t want to abandon Microsoft? You can dual-boot between Windows and Linux. Now if you don’t like partitioning your Hard Drive manually, some distros automatically set up the partitions for you, so newbies, don’t be scared of installing Linux.

Ask for help when you need it

If you are having problems with Linux, a great site for Linux help is http://linuxquestions.org. There is also a UNIX forum on the Leoville Town Square where you can post and get help from other Leo fans at http://leovilletownsquare.com/fusionbb/showforum.php?fid/29/. Also, you can ask someone that knows Linux, and they will help you with your Linux problems. There also may be linux clubs in your local area. These are the best way to learn Linux as it is hands on experience.

Hopefully with these tips, and a little experience with Linux, you can say goodbye to Microsoft forever, and enjoy using your computer.

Demitri Kambouris
David McDonald