Best live CD (DVD) distribution

[Brian Chabot]

Karl wrote:
> I would like to 
> try Linux on this laptop before I blow Vista away or make it a dual boot 
> machine.  What live CD (DVD) distribution would you recommend.

That's very much a matter of taste. 

Most current users are siding with Gnome vs KDE or Apt vs rpm.

>   I am 
> leaning towards Knopix. 

As it is a laptop, I presume you're looking for mostly desktop
functionality, as opposed to server...

My own personal preference is for Mandriva One.  Others will, no doubt
also suggest Ubuntu.  Both are quite usable.  Also check out PCLinuxOS
and DamnSmallLinux.  There is a good list over at
http://www.frozentech.com/content/livecd.php

The great thing about live Cd's is that you aren't installing
anything... you can play with several before making a commitment.

>  Also, whatever live distribution I try, what 
> would you recommend for a dual boot setup.  Using the live version for 
> the dual boot would seem to make sense since at that point the hardware 
> compatibility will have been established.

Both Mandriva One and Ubuntu have the option to begin an install from
the Live CD desktop.  That makes things very easy.

Hope this helps a little,


Brian


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