The first place to find information is on the Linux-Mandrake CD-ROM, and in any
Manuals or books which came with the CD. In the doc folder under the root
directory on the CD, there are several references you can use to get started (
you can use your web browser for some). Just start reading. Personally, I'd
suggest you go ahead and install Linux-Mandrake, then use the references while
using the OS, sort of like earn while you learn <grin>. While you are learning
Linux, you may want to keep your current OS working, so you can get on-line to
ask questions here on the list and search web sites for information. You can
also start searching for information from the Mandrake web site at
http://www.linux-mandrake.com.
You may not be too impressed with Linux until you have used it for a while, and
start to realize how nice it is to be able to find a way of doing nearly
anything you want to do with your PC, and then there is the added bonus that
the shell won't crash on you at the drop of the proverbial hat. There is a lot
of work involved in learning a new OS, but at least with Linux, the OS does not
hide the hardware from you, and you will learn how the PC works while you learn
Linux. To me, this is as it should be. I am a newbie myself, perhaps 4 to 6
weeks with Linux, and already, I am spouting off trying to help others with
what I have discovered.
Linux comes with a graphical user interface called the X-Windows system, and
while X is running, you can use your choice of many desk-tops, among which are
Gnome, and KDE. These make using Linux quite easy, and you still have the
option of using the command line interface when you need or want to, either in
a virtual console, or in a console window while in the desktop environment.
Since I have started using Linux, I seldom run Windoze any more, because there
are few things I can not do in Linux. I keep Windoze for my family - they're
not interested in learning the new OS - go figure!
So welcome to Linux, I think you'll like it if you give it a chance,
Ernie
On Fri, 22 Oct 1999,ibi wrote:
| Hello,
|
| I'm so new I haven't even loaded Linux; I've never seen a Linux screen
| and I don't know one command. When you pick yourself up off the floor I
| have one question. I've decided on Mandrake based on the strength of
| support. Where do I go to begin to learn the raw basics? My goal is to
| have a pure Linux box.
|
| Thanks,
|
| Pj
