First, some advice: Don't download Linux to install it. Buy a copy.
Linux
CDs
For less than $50, you
can get a good book like Linux Unleashed or Linux: The Complete
Reference that will include a CD-ROM full of Linux. These CD versions
are far easier to install than the download, plus you get the added benefit
of having handy written documentation around. If you're new to Linux, you'll
need the docs.
Downloading
the Kernel
If you insist on downloading
Linux, you have a lot of options. If you're really looking to flex your
tech muscles, you can simply download the
kernel and build your own OS from the ground up. Unless you have a
lot of time on your hands, don't. Instead, get a complete distribution.
A distribution is a package that includes the Linux kernel and a
variety of utilities and other software--useful things such as desktop
managers, Web browsers, and the like.
Linux
Distributions
You can go directly to
the distribution makers--Red Hat,
Caldera,
Debian, or Slackware--or
visit a site like Linux Online for a list of more
than a dozen distributions you can download. Each distribution has
its fans and particular features. Red Hat is by far the most popular, in
part because of its relatively easy installation interface. Debian has
a reputation for throwing in everything and the kitchen sink with its distribution.
Caldera Open Linux comes complete with NetWare support.
Once you decide which distribution
you want to use, you'll need to check out the distributor's installation
instructions, as they vary a bit from vendor to vendor.
