Linux® is a complete operating system that is similar, but not identical to UNIX®. It runs on a wide variety of hardware, ranging from 386's/486's/Pentiums/Pentium II's/Pentium III's/IV's and Athlon's to more exotic hardware such as IBM super computers, PowerPCs, and Silicon Graphics workstations. Probably the most unique characterisitc of Linux is that it is freely distributable. Freely distributable means that the source code for the kernel and most software cannot be withheld. It does not mean that companies cannot charge for it.
Originally the term Linux referred strictly to the kernel (the core of the operating system), but the phrase itself refers nowadays to a collection of configured software that runs on top of the Linux kernel. These "collections of software" are known as distributions. Although these distributions often have their own unique (together with some proprietary software) flavour, they are essentially the same.
The bewildering choice and ever increasing number of Linux distributions can be confusing for those of you who are new to Linux. There are over 100 distributions, but there are 10 which are generally considered as most widely used by Linux users around the world. There are no figures to back this up and there are many other distributions that might suit your particular purpose better, but as a general rule, all of these are popular and have very active forums or mailing lists where you can ask questions if you get stuck. Lycoris®, Xandros® and Lindows® are considered the best for new Linux users who want to get productive in Linux as soon as possible without having to master all its complexities.
On the other end of the spectrum, Gentoo®, Debian® and Slackware® are more advanced distributions that require plenty of learning before they can be used effectively. Mandrake®, Fedora Core®, Red Hat® and SUSE® can be classified as good middle-road type distributions. Knoppix® is a special case - it is great for trying out Linux without getting your hands dirty as it runs directly from a CD, with no installation required. These distributions are listed in order of popularity on DistroWatch, which is NOT an indication of their market share or quality.
The easiest way to obtain a Linux distribution is to purchase a CD-ROM containing the software. Unless you have a very fast connection to the Internet a CD-ROM represents the most convenient method. The Linux Emporium offers the popular distributions for 2 pounds, which includes postage. One thing they can't offer is technical support. If you think you will need some help in installing Linux I would recommend you purchase a Linux distribution from Suretec Systems Ltd. We can offer various support options and enable you to pick the right distribution.
If I had to recommend one distribution to a newcomer it would be Fedora Core®. Why, you ask? This is an up-to-date distribution which has some excellent utilities for configuring Linux, it has arguably the best package manager (for easy installation and de-installation of software), and has wide support among the Linux community. Check out Fedoranews for up to date articles and information about Fedora Core®. Also our director, Gavin Henry, contributes to the Fedora community by way of writing for Fedoranews.org/ghenry