Hello,
I want to install some GNU/Linux distribution on a new IBM Thinkpad T40. So far I've heard (runors) that one of the following distributions should be best for me:
Debian Mandrake RedHat Suse
Debian will probably not be an option unless I find someone to hold my hand during installation and configuration. For some reason it seems intimidating to me. I am a very capable users but I'm not up to date with new updates, security and other patches and software-hardware compatibility issues so I fear that the extra freedom in debian might be an obstacle for me. I would like to ba proven wrong, though...
If you want Debian with a nice installer, check Libranet (www.libranet.com).
Mandrake and redhat seem appealing, but I have no idea which one of them has the more "rich" stable package now (in terms of kernel, GUI and hardware related updates). I checked their sites and could not understand which one has the best blend of software which will enable operation of the laptop with Linux on the first try.
I find Mandrake more appealing for the less technical user, maily due to the Drakconf utility. It makes post installation life much easier. urpmi also makes installation and dependency checking much easier, both from the internet and localy.
I also heard that Suse linux installes perfectly with my kind of a laptop, but as rumors are -- this is just a rumor. I did not actually see anyone who have done that and was able to use the laptop's features from the beginning.
Check http://www.linux.org/hardware/laptop.html and http://www.linux-laptop.net. See what other people installed on the same model you have.
I am also considerin buying a distribution (with CDs and all) just to be sure I have CDs with everything needed (I am not expected to have easy access to internet soon, so it seems like a safe thing to do in order not to get stuck).
With SuSE, you really have no other option. They do not provide ISO images of their system.
Still -- I am not sure I understand what I benefit from this besides having the CDs and a month or two or email/phone support (which I am not sure will be helpful).
Check the sites. Most commercial distibutions will offer: 1. e-mail support 2. Software updates (Redhat and SuSE) 3. Access to on-line suppport (Mandrake) 4. Some commercial software (such as crossover office, BRU, etc).
Any input will be useful. Thanks.
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