For the past 2 years I HAVEN'T had a computer at home by CHOICE! Now I'm finally getting a XP laptop to surf the net while sitting on the couch and I've decided to take a stab at Linux for a desktop that will do nothing but d/l via Bit Torrent and burn CDs and DVDs.

I know the Bit Torrent won't be a problem, but are they're decent CD/DVD burning software for Linux?

I realize I don't really need that much computing power for these simple tasks, but you can get SO MUCH for so cheap nowdays. Though I don't want to spend too much.

What processor is recommended? I have an extra Celeron 900mHz laying around, should I use this or since I need to buy a new motherboard should I go ahead and get a cheap bundle? If I do decide to use the Celeron does it matter which motherboard I get? Can I assume any ABIT/ASUS motherboard will be compatiable with Linux?

How much memory? 256? or should I go ahead and get 512?

It will have to connect to my yet purchased wireless network. Will any Linksys/Netgear/etc. g adapter work?

What about DVD and CD burners? Anyone matter?

I realize this is a lot of questions, but I appreciate any help.

There are two or three programs included in most distributions. Examples: k3b, xcdroast (both graphical).

If you're able to get a motherboard that will work with your Celeron, use it. If you can't find any I recommend Athlons (one of those close to the lowest range will be OK). Motherboards incompatibilities are very rare. If something goes wrong it's onboard sound etc, but not the basic things.

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How much memory? 256? or should I go ahead and get 512?

256MB is OK, but 512MB means comfort.

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It will have to connect to my yet purchased wireless network. Will any Linksys/Netgear/etc. g adapter work?

Ahhh...There problems happen. Make a list of the ones you're interested in and check them in the HCL.

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What about DVD and CD burners? Anyone matter?

All work (IMHO).

You should check out the Linuxquestions.org Hardware compatibility list. Don't forget to add to it if you get anything that's not on that list

http://www.linuxquestions.org/hcl/index.php

another good site to check is:

http://www.linuxcompatible.org/