Surely Hab should beg, borrow or download a few live cd's and try them. <br>
(Linux Format Magazine DVD addition will give very ready access to more than most can cope with.)<br>
My own preferences would be any member of the Debian family that suits, after trials of a live CD.<br>
Ubuntu, Mepis, Knoppix and many others have deservedly excellent
reputations. Xandros (free version) might suit someone who
doesn't want to mess about.<br>
I use Ubuntu and Sarge (Debian).<br>
Reading reviews and news via <a href="http://distrowatch.com/">http://distrowatch.com/</a> is good of course.
There are also numerous ads offering copies of distributions on CD and
DVD on that site. <a href="http://LinuxMedia.co.uk">LinuxMedia.co.uk</a> offers CDs for £2 and DVDs for £3<br>
<br>
Recent events at Mandriva suggest that staying clear of it would be sensible, and are covered on distrowatch. <br>
<br>
John Crookes<br>