learning linux

[weeman7007]

which distro(s) are most helpful for learning linux? i was just wondering if there were some out there, kind of like gentoo, but not such a pain to attempt to install.

[Leesh]

which distro(s) are most helpful for learning linux? i was just wondering if there were some out there, kind of like gentoo, but not such a pain to attempt to install.
Basically, any distribution is good to learn Linux. It all depends on what are you planning to do on your computer. For example, you won't install Ubuntu Studio on a machine, where you plan just to write documents. If you mean the commands, they are the same on any distribution (at least at those, using the same shell).

I think Ubuntu is a perfect choice for novice users, who want to learn Linux, because the main functionality is similar to that of Windows (I mean that there is also an office suite, a calculator, a media player a web browser and so on). You can use it's Live CD feature to learn and try it without even installing it.

[game_plan]

I have to agree Ubuntu is the easiest Linux distro I've seen.

It installs easy, installs packages and updates easily, almost everything can be done graphically so the transition from Windows isnt painful.

YET, when you dive into the command line its a powerful system.

[in_flu_ence]

If you are trying to learn how an alternative OS works, I have no doubt that Ubuntu is the easiest. I have tried Centos, Opensuse and others. None kept me playing with it for years.

If you want to break the system and see how each file works, you can try Linux from scratch whereby you really build something from the kernel on.

So Choice is yours as what Linux is meant for. Pick one learn all.