Step 2: Choose a Linux distribution

If you're new to Unix-like OSs, pick a distribution that focuses on easy installation, such as Mandrakelinux or SuSE Linux. For informative reviews of various distributions, check out DistroWatch. Once you've selected one, go to the Web site for that distribution and check the list of supported hardware against your component list. If you can't find a distribution that supports your hardware, you're better off not installing Linux, unless you're ready to spend serious time learning more about it.

If you don't want to pay a dime for your Linux, insist on a distribution that's available for free download in ISO images. This makes it easy to burn CDs for installation, but you'll need patience. Even with broadband, expect to spend at least a couple of hours downloading each disc. Alternatively, you can pay an outfit such as CheapISO.com, OSDepot.com, or LinuxWerks to send you discs of a specific build for only a few dollars per disc.

Some distributions, including Mandrakelinux and SuSE, are available in boxed, commercial versions meant for home use. They typically cost less than $50 and, unlike their free counterparts, usually include a few months of free technical support. (If you opt for a boxed version, skip ahead to Step 4.)