i think i may try mepis out.. looks pretty nice. Ill let you guys know what happens. If anyone has any other suggestions keep em commen.

I think Vector Linux is debian based and a scaled down system. Someone already mentioned Gnoppix. You said you heard of Libranet but you didn't say you've tried them. They are pretty good also. I went to them after having Debian problems. I am going to try Mepis also. Ran into one install problem already. I got a fix off the website but haven't tried it yet. If I don't like Mepis, I'll stay with Libranet.

Vector Linux is based on Slackware.

Thanks Spurious.

Knoppix 3.3 is an excellent way to get into Debian software. You can try it out as a Live CD - (boot straight into the system from CD), then install it to the hard drive if you like it to get a responsive system. Knoppix also makes a great boot repair CD and it's great to have when you're traveling and using other systems. You can use it without having to install Linux on someone else's system.

Mepis and Morphix are two other Live CD implementations that are spinoffs of the Knoppix project, and both of them are good. Mepis is especially good if you are planning to install the software eventually (or even immediately) to the hard disk. Morphix offers several different modular implementations, depending on whether you want a fast, lightweight system or a very full and complete desktop system.

Libranet is arguably one of the most complete and well tested commercial Debian systems. It is a complete system in it's own right, and you can either purchase the latest version and support the company or download a free older version and use the Debian packaging to bring your system up to the very latest and current software. I highty recommend Libranet if you want a full, complete, well balanced system.