Which OS is the best free (open source) alternative to Windows?

Question

and what desktop enviroment comes with that?

And what's the story with the linux versions (mandriva, suse...)

Answer 1

There are many distro's for many different purposes, so I don't think there's any one "best" Linux. There are general-use Linux distributions, but there are also exotic distributions like GeeXboX for building a dedicated media system to hook up to your TV, or Scientific Linux for building a scientific computing cluster.

I sometimes check distrowatch.com to see how things rank, and by popularity on that site as well as from friends' recommendations it seems Ubuntu is very popular, and I have to say I'm quite happy with it myself. You can try it out without installing it, it comes with a good set of app's including Internet tools, an office suite, dev tools, Web server if you want it, graphics programs, etc. and it's got a nice set of repositories where you can get more stuff with a click of a button.

There are many others who like Fedora or SUSE or Slackware, and they have their strengths and weaknesses. And different people like them because not everyone wants the same thing out of an operating system. Shop around, try a couple and see what you like.

Answer 2

As far as I know there is only the one contender Linux... its doesn't matter whether you download form from the Net, or get one from a cover disk on a PC magazine or buy a distribution.. they are about £20..50. all the distribution does is simplify the installation and setup.. its worth spending the samll amount of cash on distribution as it eases setup. distros have vast amounts of software budneld with them.. often they autoinstall making setting up a trial server for say web work a breeze (inclide local email, SQK or whatever).. you can download these package separately (and often the stuff ont he distro disks is a bit dated so it pays to update the software) but its a pain.

setting up a networked Linux server can be a bit daunitng for the unitiated.. its not difficult, its just if youi havemt done it before it cna be fiddly

picking a distribution is upto you
I've used Red Hat & Suse (no Novell) both workled fine the installation in SUSE was a doddle..... network setup mind you a bit of a pain, and integrating into a windows XP network fiddly.

you need to check what is in the distribution you are getting, SUSE comes with Gnome & KDE, Red hat I think is Gnome

most come with open office

Answer 3

Linux

Answer 4

Ubuntu Linux is probably the best version of Linux check this site out you can also download it if you like what you see
http://www.ubuntu.com/
as well as being user friendly

Answer 5

I prefer the K Desktop environment. Try Suse or Kubuntu for ease of set up and use
http://en.opensuse.org/Welcome_to_openSUSE.org
http://www.kubuntu.org/

Answer 6

Great suggestions so far. Best answer - NONE. Worldwide and Proven (except that Vista Monster). In this world I take my Father's sage advice: It is What it is. Windows is not now, nor never will be, perfect. Until any other system proves to be downright superior, Windows wins.

Answer 7

Linux--

check out www.linux.org

Answer 8

neither Linux or mac simply because most programs all around the world are created for Microsoft and they are not compatible with others

Answer 9

Well
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Answer 10

RedHat Linux although personally prefer mac even though you have to pay for it.