what to get
 

i'm brand new to linux (as in i don't have it yet). i know there a a 10 billion type of linux/unix and i need help sorting through whitch one to get. i've got a pc from HP and i'm just trying to learn more about computers and the internet. Oh yeah, i'm also poor :( I would really apritiate any help

PLEASE!!!

Search these very forums for hundreds of posts along a very similar vein (search button at the top of the page) :)

Not knowing your spec it's hard to reccomend but a few for you to look at are Fedora Core, Ubuntu, Suse for a desktop workstation that is easy on those just starting out.

and debian, slackware,vector linux for server/lower spec hardware

Welcome to LQ, you'll find what you need at the LQ WIKI

Get any of the free distros and install it.

I recommend Fedora or Ubuntu

For Ubuntu, you can order free CDs if you do not have a fast internet connection.

After you have installed something, you'll be back with more questions...;)

Welcome brainpower4,

there are several threads on this, every day some occur. One of the last threads with good info is found at: http://www.linuxquestions.org/questi...hreadid=387424

Maybe you will get confused a little bit. There are several distros that differ, and so you will get completely different answers. It depends not only on money (most of them are free to download) but on your general computer skills level and the things you want to do.