Distributions
Linux comes in a number of different “flavors”. These are most often referred to as “distributions” (“distro”). Default kernel configuration, tools that are included (system management and configuration, etc.) and the package format (i.e., the upgrade path) most commonly differentiate the various Linux distros.
It is common to hear users complain that device X works under Suse Linux, but not on Red Hat, etc. Or that device Y did not work under Red Hat version 7.3, but an upgrade to 8.0 “fixed it”.Most often, the difference is in the version of the Linux_kernel_being used and therefore the updated drivers, or the patches applied by the distribution vendor, not the version of the distribution (or the distribution itself).
Red Hat
One of themost popular Linux distributions (right now). Red Hat works with companies like Dell, IBM and Intel to assist business in the adoption of Linux for enterprise use. Use of RPM and Kickstart began the first “real” user upgrade paths for Linux. Red Hat isan excellent choice for beginners because of the huge install base and the proliferation of online support. The install routine is well polished and hardware support is well documented. While Red Hat has elected to move into a more enterprise oriented business model, it is still a viable option for the desktop through the “Fedora Project” (http://fedora.redhat.com/).
If you are installing Linux specifically to accompany this document, then I’d suggest any of Red Hat 7.3, 8.0, or 9.0, depending on your required hardware support.
Debian
Not really for beginners. The installation routine is not as polished as some other distributions. Debian has always been a hacker favorite. It is also one of the most “non-commercial” Linux distributions,and true to the spirit of GNU/GPL.
SuSE
Another distribution with its own proprietary install program,YaST2. SuSE is German in origin. It is by far the largest software inclusive distribution, and comes with six (6!) CD’s (or a DVD).
Slackware
The original commercial distribution. Slackware has been
around for years. Installation is not as easy as others. Good standard Linux. Not over-encumbered by GUI config tools.
Mandrake Linux
Red Hat based and rapidly gaining on Red Hat’s desktop
market share, Mandrake is a favorite of many beginners and desktop users. It is heavy on GUI configuration tools, allowing for easy migration to a Linux desktop environment. Mandrake is also a goodchoice to use with this document’s exercises.
Gentoo Linux
Source-centric distribution that is optimized during install – my personal favorite. Once through the complex installation routine, upgrading the system and adding software is made extremely easy through Gentoo’s “Portage” system. _Not_for beginners, though. You are left to configure the system entirely on your own.
My suggestion for the absolute beginner would be either the newest version of Mandrake (currently 9.2) or Red Hat (currently 9.0). Mandrake is actually a Red Hat based distribution with numerous GUI enhancements that make the learning process easier for “newbies”. Also keep in mind that Red Hat is discontinuing support for it’s free distribution, which is being replaced bythe Fedora Project. If you really want to “dive in” and bury yourself, go for Gentoo, Debian or Slackware. If you choose one of the latter distributions, be prepared to read…a lot.
One thing to keep in mind: If you are going to use Linux in a forensic capacity, then try not to rely on GUI tools too much. Almost all settings and configurations in Linux are maintained in text files (usually in either your home directory, or in/etc).By learning to edit the files yourself, you avoid problems when either the X window system is not available, or when the specific GUI tool you rely on is not on a system you might come across. In addition, knowledge of the text configuration files willgive you insight into what is “normal”, and what might have been changed when you examine a subject system.