good linux OS

Can anyone recommend a version of Linux that is good for novice users of Linux, and can be used on the same hard drive as Windows XP?

 

If not wanting to go through the hassle of splitting the hard drive into a seperate partition, use Knoppix, or one of the other LiveCD versions. Better off, put Linux on the computer, and set up with VMWare for a Virtual session for XP.

 

What brownizs said about Knoppix. If you just want to get a look at Linux, fiddle around a bit, but not have to make a commitment on anything, then Knoppix is a good bet. There are other LiveCDs out there, but I think Knoppix is still the best.

If you have space on your HD (read un-partitioned space) and you want to make a commitment, then I'd suggest giving Ubuntu a try. It's a relatively small download (only 1 CD, rather than 5 CDs and/or 1 DVD that other distros require) and pretty easy to install. Also, Ubuntu has a very n00b-user friendly forum that can help out with any questions you have. If you do decide to install Ubutnu, search the Ubuntu forums for a post about a little program called Automatix--that program will help you get Ubuntu set up to do most things you want to be able to do with a computer.

 

Look into PCLinuxOS. They also have a live CD you can try. I found it very easy to use as a noob. It's very smooth and looks great. They have an outstanding support forum as well. It does take a higher end machine to run at best performance.

http://www.pclinuxos.com/news.php

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