K i have never used linux and i really want to. i have a 120 GB hard drive and 1 GB of RAM. Id like to run Linux and Windows XP togeather(i need windows) so my questions are:

1. Is this going to be hard. I dont want to get mislef into a mess. I doont want to lose my data. And im not much of an expert.

2. Am i going to need a partition if so how can i do it. Ive read about Partition Magic( i think it will do most of the work for me) or should i use something else.

3. I have a network which helps me connect ot the internet. if i get linux will i lose my connection or how could i get it back up.

4. What would be the best version to get for me.

1) No, install mandrake linux and dual boot, you should be fine.
2)You will need a separate partition and you dont need partition magic> During install, linux will ask you if you want to install it on a separate partition..click yes and it will do it automatically for you.
3) You can get it back..there are a lot of people willing to help here. + You will still have windows on other partition in case of emergency.
4) Mandrake 9.1 or Redhat 9.0