Like to know the difference between Debian and Ubuntu
 

My question is about the difference between Debian and Ubuntu:

I heard that there was more to configure with Debian. How is this so?

How much control do I get with installation (as far as the programs I
want ot install)? Is there just a default install or do I get more choices?


Thanks.

You get the same choices. They both use apt (the same commandline options are there for both), and they are both .deb based.

You can get tons of choices on either by using the expert mode. I think on Ubuntu, you may have to use the "Alternate" install CD.

They mostly work the same and have the same tools available. If you run Debian stable branch, your programs are generally rock solid, but will be a version or two behind the latest Ubuntu. You can use newer software by running the testing or unstable branch. Unstable is not as bleeding edge as say Fedora, but it's pretty up to date. Just don't expect everything to always go smoothly. Many people run testing (currently Squeeze) to get a good middle ground for a Debian desktop system. I run stable because my wife is not very computer saavy. It's easier for me to just leave it alone...